After immunizations, when should a nurse notify the healthcare provider about fever?

• A. True
• B. False
• C. Only if fever persists after 72 hours
• D. Only for infants under 1 year

Answer: (B)

Fever after vaccination is often a normal, self-limited reaction, so a nurse does not automatically notify a provider for every fever. The decision to call should be based on symptoms and severity. Notify the provider if the fever is high (about 39°C/102°F or higher), lasts longer than 2–3 days, or is accompanied by warning signs such as poor feeding or hydration, lethargy, inconsolable crying, vomiting, or any seizure or signs of a severe reaction. In infants, especially very young ones, fever warrants prompt assessment. Mild fever that resolves with fluids and rest is commonly expected and may not require urgent contact. So the rule is not to wait a full 72 hours; call sooner if red flags appear or if the child is at higher risk.