Certified Pediatric Nurse (CPN)

What is an additional intervention for caring for an infant with bronchiolitis caused by RSV?

1. Administer Albuterol every 4 hours

2. Provide Racemic epinephrine every 6 hours

3. Use hypotonic saline as needed

4. Offer no additional interventions since RSV is a virus

The correct answer is: Offer no additional interventions since RSV is a virus

When caring for an infant with bronchiolitis caused by respiratory syncytial virus (RSV), it's important to understand the nature of the condition. RSV is a viral infection that primarily affects the small airways in the lungs, leading to inflammation and congestion. Because bronchiolitis is viral in origin, specific antiviral medications are not typically administered. The focus of treatment in such cases is supportive care, which may include hydration, nasal suctioning to clear secretions, and monitoring for respiratory distress. Since the primary concern with bronchiolitis is managing symptoms and providing support rather than treating the virus itself, it is appropriate to refrain from additional interventions that would not alter the course of the viral illness. Other suggested interventions, such as administering bronchodilators like albuterol or racemic epinephrine, or using hypotonic saline, have limited effectiveness in the management of RSV-induced bronchiolitis. The use of bronchodilators in particular has not shown significant benefits in infants with bronchiolitis. Therefore, stating that no additional interventions are needed reflects the understanding that RSV is self-limiting and supportive care is the appropriate approach.