2025-07-25·8 min read·Pediatrics
Pediatric Respiratory Infections: Croup, Epiglottitis, and RSV
Differentiate common pediatric respiratory infections and their nursing management for the NCLEX.
Croup (Laryngotracheobronchitis)
- Viral (parainfluenza), ages 6 months - 3 years
- Barky/seal-like cough, stridor, hoarseness
- Worse at night, gradual onset
- Treatment: cool mist humidifier, racemic epinephrine, dexamethasone
Epiglottitis
- Bacterial (H. influenzae), ages 2-8 years
- Sudden onset, high fever, drooling, tripod position, muffled voice
- Do NOT inspect throat (risk of laryngospasm)
- Emergency: intubation equipment at bedside, antibiotics IV
RSV (Respiratory Syncytial Virus)
- Most common cause of bronchiolitis in infants <2 years
- Wheezing, tachypnea, nasal flaring, retractions
- Contact precautions - highly contagious
- Prevention: palivizumab (Synagis) for high-risk infants
Key Nursing Points
- Monitor respiratory status closely - young children deteriorate quickly
- Maintain hydration (small frequent feedings)
- Avoid throat exams in suspected epiglottitis
Study more at Pediatric Nursing cheat sheet and Health Promotion study guide.