During a mid-December clinic visit, a 5-month-old female infant is evaluated for a cough and rapid breathing. The mother reports that the infant developed sneezing and a runny nose four days ago. Since yesterday, the cough has worsened. Vital signs include a temperature of 37.6°C (99.7°F), heart rate of 135/min, respiratory rate of 56/min, and oxygen saturation of 97% on room air. The infant is alert and feeding well. Lung auscultation reveals scattered end-expiratory wheezes and mild intercostal retractions bilaterally. Which of the following is the most appropriate management for this patient?
- Observation and reassurance regarding adequate fluid intakeCevap
- BTrial of inhaled short-acting beta-agonists
- CSystemic glucocorticoid therapy
- DEmpiric broad-spectrum antibiotic therapy
- ERoutine screening chest radiograph
Cevap
Observation and reassurance regarding adequate fluid intake
This patient presents with classic signs of mild viral bronchiolitis (rhinorrhea, low-grade fever, wheezing, and mild work of breathing in an infant during winter). Because she is well-hydrated and maintaining normal oxygen saturation on room air, the standard of care is entirely supportive, focusing on maintaining adequate hydration and monitoring.
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Anahtar Kavram
Diagnosis and management of mild acute viral bronchiolitis in infants.