Which of the following is a critical step after a febrile seizure in a pediatric patient?

After a febrile seizure in a pediatric patient, checking blood glucose is a critical step because hypoglycemia can mimic or exacerbate seizures. While febrile seizures are typically self-limiting and occur in the presence of a fever, it is crucial to ensure that other treatable causes of seizures, such as low blood sugar levels, are not present. Children may have varying glucose levels, and a hypoglycemic episode could lead to further complications.

Monitoring blood glucose helps in ruling out other conditions that may require immediate intervention. It’s essential to distinguish between simple febrile seizures and more serious underlying issues before determining the appropriate course of action, such as further treatment or observation.

Other methods, like administering aspirin or cooling with ice water, are not appropriate for treating or managing post-seizure symptoms and could be harmful. Likewise, starting CPR is not indicated unless the patient is unresponsive and not breathing, which is outside the typical presentation of a febrile seizure. Therefore, evaluating blood glucose serves as a necessary step in the management of a pediatric patient following a febrile seizure.