In older adults, which temperature is typically considered febrile?

Prepare for the NCLEX with questions that have hints and explanations to boost your exam readiness and confidence. Ace your NCLEX with hundreds of detailed questions and resources tailored for success.

Multiple Choice

In older adults, which temperature is typically considered febrile?

Explanation:
Older adults often have a blunted fever response, so the temperature threshold used to define fever is a bit higher in this group. A fever is typically considered present when the temperature is around 101°F (38.3°C) or higher in the elderly. Therefore, 101.5°F clearly meets the febrile threshold for an older adult, while the other temperatures are below that cutoff. Keep in mind that infections in older adults can sometimes present with little or no fever, so clinical signs and diagnostics matter alongside temperature.

Older adults often have a blunted fever response, so the temperature threshold used to define fever is a bit higher in this group. A fever is typically considered present when the temperature is around 101°F (38.3°C) or higher in the elderly. Therefore, 101.5°F clearly meets the febrile threshold for an older adult, while the other temperatures are below that cutoff. Keep in mind that infections in older adults can sometimes present with little or no fever, so clinical signs and diagnostics matter alongside temperature.

Subscribe

Get the latest from Examzify

You can unsubscribe at any time. Read our privacy policy