What does the term afebrile mean?

The term "afebrile" is derived from the Latin components "a-" meaning "without" and "febris" meaning "fever." Thus, it specifically describes a state in which an individual does not have a fever. A patient who is afebrile indicates that their body temperature is within the normal range, generally considered to be approximately 98.6°F (37°C). This term is important in medical contexts for helping healthcare professionals assess a patient's condition and monitor for potential illnesses.

In the context of a clinical evaluation, determining whether a patient is afebrile can be crucial for diagnosing infections or other conditions that typically cause elevated body temperature. Understanding this term helps medical scribes accurately document and communicate patient observations effectively in clinical settings.