Bronchiolitis is usually characterized by:
Coryzal prodrome 1-3 days, followed by:
a) Chesty cough
b) Tachypnoea
c) Chest recessions
d) Bilateral crackles with or without wheeze on chest auscultation
e) 30% will have a fever (usually < 39 degrees Celsius).
f) Poor feeding and/or vomiting
g) Apnoeas may be seen as a complication of bronchiolitis, especially in young babies < 6 weeks of age. This is a ‘red flag’ and needs ‘999’ paramedic ambulance.
Bronchiolitis occurs in children < 2 years of age, most commonly in the first year of life. Symptoms peak between 3-5 days of illness. The cough resolves in 90% of infants within 3 weeks. Most children will not require any treatment.
Please use the table under ‘Management’ to assess severity of illness.
Measuring Oxygen saturations
If pulse oximetry is available, measure oxygen saturations in every infant presenting with suspected bronchiolitis. Ensure an age appropriate oximeter is used – using an adult probe can give inaccurate readings.