RSV: respiratory syncytial virus. Leading cause of lower respiratory tract illness in children less than 2 years of age.
-Risks: prematurity, congenital disorders, smoke
-S/S: begins with simple URI, nasal discharge, mild fever, wheezing, nonproductive paraoxysmal cough, tachypnea with flaring nares, dyspnea and retractions, becomes worse day 2-3 and can progress to life threatening respiratory distress.
-Treatment: Mild: treat symptoms (support care, antipyretics)
Severe: IV fluids, albuterol sulfate, antipyretics, suction, oxygen