(6)
(a) Aminophylline, in the dosage 2 to 4 mg per kilogram diluted in at
least 10 ml of D5/W, to be given IV over no less than 15 minutes.
(b) Hydrocortisone in the dosage 5 mg per kilogram drawn up in a
syringe to be added to the IV bag.
(7)
Monitor the child's cardiac rhythm.
3-14. BRONCHIOLITIS
Bronchiolitis is the inflammation of the small bronchi (the bronchiolus) caused by
a viral infection. This is a severe respiratory illness in infants and young children under
two years of age.
a. History. Be sure to take a good history. Ask the following questions:
(1)
Is there a family history of asthma or allergies?
(2) Does the child have known allergies? If the answer is yes, he could
have asthma.
(3) Has the child had a low-grade fever recently? If the answer is yes, he
may have bronchiolitis.
b. Signs/Symptoms.
(1)
Look for signs of infection such as low-grade fever.
(2) Look for signs of respiratory distress such as wheezing, coughing, and
sputum production.
(3) The child's age is important. If he is under one year and has the signs
and symptoms of bronchiolitis, he is likely to have bronchiolitis.
c. Treatment. Treat as follows.
(1)
Administer humidified oxygen by mask.
(2) Place the child in a semi-sitting position with his neck slightly
hyperextended.
(3)
Give epinephrine 1:1000 subcutaneously (SQ) if ordered by a physician.
MD0584
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