Infant Bronchiolitis
An 8-month-old infant is brought in by a parent with three days of cough and runny nose, now feeding poorly and breathing fast. Bronchiolitis is suspected.
Recognize cues
Vital signs: HR 168, RR 66, SpO2 89% on room air, temperature 38.1 C. The infant has nasal flaring, subcostal retractions, grunting, and has taken only 2 ounces of formula in eight hours. Two wet diapers in 24 hours.
Which finding requires the most immediate follow-up?
Take action
The provider orders nasal suctioning, supplemental oxygen to keep SpO2 above 92%, continuous pulse oximetry, and IV fluids if oral intake stays poor.
Which two actions should the nurse take first?
Evaluate outcomes
After suctioning and oxygen: RR 44, HR 138, SpO2 95% on 1 L/min. Retractions are mild, grunting has stopped, and the infant finished 4 ounces of formula.
Which finding best indicates the treatment is working?
Ready to answer this case?
Practice the full Infant Bronchiolitis case — with answer choices and rationales for every part — in the Pediatrics quiz.
Practice this case