Acute bronchiolitis: assessment and management in the emergency department

Pediatr Emerg Med Pract. 2019 Oct;16(10):1-24. Epub 2019 Oct 2.

Abstract

Acute bronchiolitis is the most common lower respiratory tract infection in young children that leads to emergency department visits and hospitalizations. Bronchiolitis is a clinical diagnosis, and diagnostic laboratory and radiographic tests play a limited role in most cases. While studies have demonstrated a lack of efficacy for bronchodilators and corticosteroids, more recent studies suggest a potential role for combination therapies and high-flow nasal cannula therapy. Frequent evaluation of patient clinical status including respiratory rate, work of breathing, oxygen saturation, and the ability to take oral fluids are important in determining safe disposition. This issue reviews the literature to provide evidence-based recommendations for effective evaluation and treatment of pediatric patients with acute bronchiolitis.

Publication types

  • Review

MeSH terms

  • Acute Disease
  • Bronchiolitis / diagnosis*
  • Bronchiolitis / drug therapy
  • Bronchodilator Agents / therapeutic use*
  • Emergency Service, Hospital*
  • Evidence-Based Medicine
  • Humans
  • Infant
  • Infant, Newborn
  • Oxygen Inhalation Therapy
  • Practice Guidelines as Topic

Substances

  • Bronchodilator Agents