Bronchiolitis
Medically reviewed by Drugs.com. Last updated on May 6, 2024.
Bronchiolitis causes the small airways to become swollen and filled with fluid and mucus. This makes it hard for your child to breathe. Bronchiolitis usually goes away on its own. Most children can be treated at home. Treatment is based on your child's symptoms. Medication is generally not needed.
WHILE YOU ARE HERE:
Informed consent
is a legal document that explains the tests, treatments, or procedures that your child may need. Informed consent means you understand what will be done and can make decisions about what you want. You give your permission when you sign the consent form. You can have someone sign this form for you if you are not able to sign it. You have the right to understand your child's medical care in words you know. Before you sign the consent form, understand the risks and benefits of what will be done to your child. Make sure all of your questions are answered.
Stay with your child for comfort and support
as often as possible while he or she is in the hospital. Ask another family member or someone close to the family to stay with your child when you cannot be there. Bring items from home that will comfort your child, such as a favorite blanket or toy.
Isolation safety measures
may be used if your child has an infection that can be passed from person to person. Healthcare providers and visitors may need to wear gloves, a face mask, or a gown. Visitors should wash their hands before leaving to keep from spreading germs.
An IV
is a small tube placed in your child's vein that is used to give medicine or liquids.
A pulse oximeter
measures how much oxygen is in your child's blood. A small clip or sticky strip will be placed on your child's finger, ear, or toe. A cord connects the oximeter to a machine. Do not remove the clip or sticky strip.
Medicines:
Acetaminophen may be given to decrease your child's pain and fever.
Treatment:
- IV fluids may be given to treat or prevent dehydration.
- Oxygen may be needed if your child's blood oxygen level is lower than it should be. Your child may get oxygen through small tubes placed in his or her nostrils. Ask your child's healthcare provider before you take off the mask or oxygen tubing.
- Removal of mucus may be done by placing a small tube into your child's mouth or nose. This may help your child breathe easier. Saline drops may be put into your child's nose to help loosen the mucus. Your child may need this treatment more than 1 time.
RISKS:
Bronchiolitis may make it hard for your child to breathe. Your child may need to stay in the intensive care unit (ICU) if the condition becomes severe. A young baby may develop an airway obstruction and need to stay in the ICU. Your child may be at higher risk for asthma after he or she has bronchiolitis.
CARE AGREEMENT:
You have the right to help plan your child's care. Learn about your child's health condition and how it may be treated. Discuss treatment options with your child's healthcare providers to decide what care you want for your child.© Copyright Merative 2024 Information is for End User's use only and may not be sold, redistributed or otherwise used for commercial purposes.
The above information is an educational aid only. It is not intended as medical advice for individual conditions or treatments. Talk to your doctor, nurse or pharmacist before following any medical regimen to see if it is safe and effective for you.
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