In RSV bronchiolitis, what is the recommended hydration approach for infants with tachypnea and poor feeding?

In RSV bronchiolitis, what is the recommended hydration approach for infants with tachypnea and poor feeding?

• A. Administer nasogastric or intravenous fluids
• B. Do nothing
• C. Oral rehydration at all times
• D. With poor feeding, oral rehydration is recommended

Answer: (A)

Maintaining hydration is the key idea. In RSV bronchiolitis with tachypnea and poor feeding, oral intake is often unreliable and insufficient, so dehydration can develop quickly. Giving fluids through a nasogastric tube or intravenously provides reliable hydration and electrolyte support when the infant cannot drink enough. This approach helps prevent dehydration and supports recovery, especially when respiratory distress makes oral feeding impractical. If the child could tolerate adequate oral fluids and maintain hydration, oral rehydration might be considered, but with poor feeding and faster breathing, relying on oral rehydration alone isn’t enough. Choosing no treatment for hydration would risk dehydration and potential clinical deterioration.

Maintaining hydration is the key idea. In RSV bronchiolitis with tachypnea and poor feeding, oral intake is often unreliable and insufficient, so dehydration can develop quickly. Giving fluids through a nasogastric tube or intravenously provides reliable hydration and electrolyte support when the infant cannot drink enough. This approach helps prevent dehydration and supports recovery, especially when respiratory distress makes oral feeding impractical. If the child could tolerate adequate oral fluids and maintain hydration, oral rehydration might be considered, but with poor feeding and faster breathing, relying on oral rehydration alone isn’t enough. Choosing no treatment for hydration would risk dehydration and potential clinical deterioration.