The client, who has a deteriorating status after having a stroke, has a rectal temperature of 102.3┬░F (39.1┬░C). Which should be the nurseÔÇÖs rationale for initiating interventions to bring the temperature to a normal level?

A normal temperature does not strengthen the immune system. Although hypothermia may increase the clientÔÇÖs chance for survival, the question is asking for the rationale for bringing the temperature to a normal level. Hyperthermia, not a normal temperature, is associated with lower scores on the Glasgow Coma Scale. The nurse should initiate temperature reduction measures because a temperature elevation in the client poststroke can cause an increase in the infarct size. This may be due to the increased oxygen demand with hyperthermia and peripheral vasodilation that decreases cerebral perfusion.