Final answer:
A false elevation in temperature in an infant may result from crying vigorously, as it can raise body temperature temporarily. After the child has calmed down, a more accurate temperature can be taken. Understanding body temperature regulation, including the role of brown adipose tissue in newborns, is essential in assessing and treating fevers in infants.
Step-by-step explanation:
The nurse may delay assessing an infant's temperature due to a false elevation of temperature caused by the child crying vigorously. Crying can lead to temporary increases in body temperature due to muscular activity and stress responses. This effect can result in a reading that does not accurately reflect the infant's core temperature. It is essential to allow some time after the infant has calmed down before measuring temperature to ensure an accurate assessment.
In the context of healthcare and treating fevers, understanding the causes of fever is crucial. A fever of 38.3 °C (101 °F) is most often caused by an upward adjustment of the body's temperature set-point, typically in response to an infection. This is an example of the body's homeostatic regulation in action, even though it can lead to discomfort.
Newborns have specialized mechanisms for maintaining body temperature, like nonshivering thermogenesis, which involves the breakdown of brown adipose tissue. Brown fat, which is found over the back, chest, and shoulders, is essential in keeping babies warm.