Question

Select all that apply: Which of the following should the nurse implement for a child hospitalized with respiratory syncytial virus (RSV)? A. Antipyretics to reduce the fever B. Oxygen therapy C. Intravenous (IV) and/or oral rehydration D. Intravenous (IV) administration of antibiotics E. Frequent monitoring and suctioning of the nasal airway F. Monitoring on a cardiac/respiratory monitor G. Routine intubation to protect the airway H. Monitoring by continuous pulse oximetry

Short answer

The correct options are A, B, C, E, F, H.

Step-by-step solution

Analyze each option individually

A. Antipyretics to reduce fever - Yes, as fever is a common symptom of RSV infection. \ B. Oxygen therapy - Yes, RSV may cause difficulties in breathing; hence oxygen therapy is beneficial. \ C. IV and/or oral rehydration - Yes, as fever can cause dehydration. \ D. IV administration of antibiotics - No, as RSV is a viral infection and antibiotics are ineffective against viruses. \ E. Frequent monitoring and suctioning of the nasal airway - Yes, to clear the airway and reducing the difficulty in breathing. \ F. Monitoring on a cardiac/respiratory monitor - Yes, as RSV can affect breathing; monitoring of cardiac and respiratory status is essential. \ G. Routine intubation to protect the airway - No, RSV is generally not severe enough to warrant routine intubation. \ H. Monitoring by continuous pulse oximetry - Yes, as it helps to monitor the oxygen saturation level which can be affected due to the viral infection.

Select viable options

Considering the typical management methods for RSV and according to the analysis in step 1, the options that should be implemented for a child hospitalized with RSV are: A. Antipyretics to reduce the fever, B. Oxygen therapy, C. Intravenous (IV) and/or oral rehydration, E. Frequent monitoring and suctioning of the nasal airway, F. Monitoring on a cardiac/respiratory monitor, H. Monitoring by continuous pulse oximetry.

Key concepts

Respiratory Syncytial Virus (RSV)

Respiratory Syncytial Virus, commonly known as RSV, is a highly contagious viral infection that affects the respiratory system, primarily in young children and infants. It usually causes mild, cold-like symptoms, but it can lead to more serious respiratory illnesses such as bronchiolitis or pneumonia, especially in infants or those with weakened immune systems.

RSV can spread through droplets when a person coughs or sneezes and can also be contracted by touching contaminated surfaces. Symptoms appear within 4 to 6 days after getting infected and can include a runny nose, coughing, sneezing, fever, and wheezing. In severe cases, children may exhibit difficulty breathing, a significant decrease in activity level, or a bluish color of the skin due to lack of oxygen.

Nursing Interventions for RSV

For pediatric patients hospitalized with RSV, comprehensive nursing care is crucial to help manage the condition and prevent complications. Nursing interventions typically include:

• Antipyretics: Administering medication to control fever, as it is a common symptom of RSV and can cause discomfort in children.
• Oxygen Therapy: Providing supplemental oxygen to children struggling to breathe or those with low blood oxygen saturation levels.
• Hydration: Ensuring adequate fluid intake, either through oral rehydration or intravenous fluids, to prevent dehydration caused by fever and rapid breathing.
• Nasal Suctioning: Clearing the nasal passageways through frequent suctioning, which can relieve breathing troubles and aid comfort.
• Monitoring: Keeping a close eye on the child's cardiac and respiratory status using monitors and continuous pulse oximetry to track oxygen saturation levels.

These interventions aim not only to alleviate symptoms but also to continuously assess the child's respiratory function and overall condition to act quickly should any signs of deterioration arise.

Viral Infection Management in Children

Managing viral infections in children, such as RSV, involves supportive care that addresses the symptoms while the child's immune system fights off the virus. Effective management strategies include rest, hydration, humidified air to ease breathing, and fever reduction.

Antibiotics are not prescribed for viral infections like RSV because they target bacteria, not viruses. Therefore, management focuses on symptom relief and close monitoring for complications. Prevention remains key in viral infection control, emphasizing proper hand hygiene, avoiding close contact with sick individuals, and cleaning surfaces to prevent the spread of viruses.

In summary, caring for a child with a viral infection like RSV involves a vigilant approach to symptom management, monitoring for any changes in condition, and preventive measures to protect the child from further exposure to the virus.