Department of Pediatrics
University Hospital
Hadassah Ein Kerem, Jerusalem
Parent Information Sheet
Bronchiolitis
Dear Parent,
Your child was hospitalized to our department with a diagnosis of "acute
bronchiolitis." We are aware that this is a stressful situation. We understand the
worries and concerns and we will facilitate your stay in the best way possible. As
you parents know your child better than we will be happy to help you to provide the
best care.
What is bronchiolitis?
It is an inflammatory obstruction of the small airways in the respiratory system
called Bronchioles. Because of an infection of the small pipes of the respiratory
system an edema is created. Together with the accumulation of mucus and phlegm
partial airway obstruction occurs.
Bronchiolitis usually appears in first two years of life, with the most common age
being 2-6 months. The disease often occurs in autumn and winter.
Premature children, children with heart disease and chronic lung, immunecompromised children – are more severely affected.
What causes the disease?
In most cases the cause of the disease is viral. The virus - RSV is responsible for
more than half the cases, but there may be other factors such as adenovirus - an
influenza virus.
What are the symptoms of the disease?
Initial symptoms are cold and fever; there may also be inflammation of the eyes, ear
infection, cough and loss of appetite. Sometimes there is vomiting after coughing. If
the disease spreads it may also cause dyspnea, cyanosis around the mouth,
irritability and apathy. A high fever is not necessary.
What tests do the children undergo?
To make sure that it's a virus, the nurse will take a sample of tissue from the nose to
send to the lab. Usually results come after about 24-48 hours.
What is the recommended treatment?
Bronchiolitis treatment is usually palliative care to relieve symptoms. Treatment
includes providing oxygen pressure - if blood oxygen saturation is below 90-92%.
Sometimes it is necessary to put the child in a “Cabin boy "- for oxygen-enriched
steam.
If the child does not drink or eat, they can be intravenous fluids to prevent
dehydration.
Hadassah Medical Center, POB 12000, Jerusalem 91120
Phone. 02-6776465 Fax. 02-6434579
Department of Pediatrics
University Hospital
Hadassah Ein Kerem, Jerusalem
Sometimes, when there is an increased breathing rate parents are asked to not give
their child food and drink. This is because drinking and eating while respiratory
effort is underway may cause chocking and worsen the child's breathing. In this case
you can dip a pacifier into sugar water to calm the child. We are aware that as a
parent it is very difficult to see your child suffer and not let him eat or drink however not eating can prevent the worsening of your child’s health and we ask
your cooperation in this matter.
Inhalations - if necessary your child may be given inhaled medication that causes
airway expansion.
Providing saline nose drops is very important, and nasal extraction will be
necessary.
Is the disease contagious?
Yes. It may be passed through direct contact with respiratory secretions. To reduce
the possibility of infecting other babies you are asked to stay in the room and avoid
contact between your child, his belongings and other children. Please wash hands
when you go out of the room.
When is the child expected to be released?
Your child will remain hospitalized until there is improvement in his clinical heath.
i.e. - pass air, normal breathing rate, does not need oxygen and can drink or eat by
himself without any difficulty breathing. However, the cough may continue for a
number of days.
What are the recommendations for home care?
1. Patience. Coughing spells will as time pass. Duration of the disease is between 7
days to several weeks.
1. Hydration. If the child has difficulty drinking, offer small amounts of liquid
frequently.
3. You can put cold steam in the child's room. Moisture helps to soften the airways.
4. In case of worsening of the disease the child must be re-examined by the doctor or
emergency room.
The department staff is at your disposal; they are ready to answer any questions or
requests you may have.
Wishing you a speedy recovery
Staff Department of Pediatrics
Hadassah Ein Kerem
Hadassah Medical Center, POB 12000, Jerusalem 91120
Phone. 02-6776465 Fax. 02-6434579