An 18-month-old child has been admitted with a diagnosis of bronchiolitis due to RSV. The therapist has administered a single dose of albuterol and racemic epinephrine, but the child shows no signs of improvement. What should the therapist suggest at this time?

Question

Quizplus · Accepted Answer

Although the role of bronchodilators in the management of bronchiolitis is controversial, a single inhalation trial using epinephrine or albuterol can be considered for respiratory distress on an individual basis, such as when there is history of asthma, allergy, or atopy. It is recommended to discontinue inhalation therapy if there is no clinical response such as improved respiratory distress or improved bronchiolitis scores. Nebulized racemic epinephrine demonstrates better short-term improvement in pulmonary physiology and clinical scores but only in the outpatient setting. However, continuation of inhalation therapy despite documented nonresponse exposes the patient to unnecessary therapy and cost.

An 18-Month-Old Child Has Been Admitted with a Diagnosis of Bronchiolitis