Registered Respiratory Therapist CSE Practice Exam

Inpatient bronchiolitis management centers on supportive care to keep the airway open, maintain oxygenation, and prevent dehydration. Systemic hydration helps ensure adequate fluid status and can aid with secretion management. Oxygen therapy is used to keep the child’s oxygen saturation in a safe range, reducing work of breathing. A trial of bronchodilators may be considered to see if there is reversible airway obstruction that responds to therapy. Airway clearance, including suctioning and humidified air, helps remove secretions and improve ventilation. If respiratory status worsens and ventilatory failure develops, mechanical ventilation becomes necessary. Other options don’t address these essential needs: vitamin supplements and rest alone don’t treat the airway and oxygenation requirements; avoiding hospitalization omits needed monitoring and interventions for more severe cases; and high-dose diuretics are not indicated for bronchiolitis.