Bronchiolitis Flashcards
1
Q
Features
A
An acute viral illness due to RSV
The most common acute LRTI in infants
Usual age 2 wks to 9 mths (up to 12 mths)
- Coryza then irritating cough
- Wheezy breathing often distressed ± signs of hypoxia
- Tachypnoea
- Hyperinflated (barrel-shaped) chest
High risk for complications—very young, cardiac disease
2
Q
Auscultation:
A
Widespread fine inspiratory crackles (not with asthma)
Frequent expiratory wheezes
X-ray:
- hyperinflation of lungs with depression of diaphragm
Virus identified by PCR on nasopharyngeal aspirate.
Rapid RSV viral test now available.
3
Q
Management
A
Admission to hospital is usual, esp. with;
- increasing respiratory distress (rate >50)
- reflected by difficulty in feeding.
Minimal handling/good nursing care
Observe colour, pulse, respiration, O2 saturation (pulse oximetry)
O2 support—preferably warm and humidifed via nasal prongs: to maintain PaO2 > 90% (pref. 95%)
Fluids IV or by nasogastric tube if unable to feed orally
Antibiotics not indicated except if secondary bacterial infection
