Infant wheezing suspected due to bronchiolitis is typically caused by RSV; how is bronchiolitis managed?

Prepare for the Platinum Emergency Medical Technician - Paramedic (EMTP) 3.3 Test. Engage with interactive questions and detailed explanations. Ace your EMT-P certification!

Bronchiolitis in infants is typically RSV-related and managed mainly with supportive care because it is a viral illness that causes small-airway inflammation and obstruction. The focus is on keeping the child hydrated, clearing secretions with nasal suction, and using humidified air as needed. Provide supplemental oxygen if the oxygen saturation falls below about 92%. Most children improve with these supportive measures and do not require antibiotics or antiviral therapy. Routine bronchodilators or systemic steroids are not first-line treatments for bronchiolitis, though a brief trial of a bronchodilator may be considered in some cases if there is a strong suspicion of a concurrent or underlying reactive airway component. Epinephrine is not a standard treatment for bronchiolitis; it’s used for other conditions like croup or certain severe allergic reactions/asthma. RSV is a common cause of bronchiolitis, not croup.