Respiratory Syncytial Virus (RSV)
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Describe RSV Ans: highly contagious respiratory
infection
Affects almost all children before age 2
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Asymptomatic or presents as simple cold in
individuals older than age 2
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May have repeated RSV infections throughout
lifespan
Symptoms tend to be less severe with repeated
exposures
Pathophysiology of RSV Ans: RSV infects
squamous epithelial cells of bronchioles, alveoli
Infected cells merge with adjacent cells, forming
syncytia that burst and die -->
Resulting debris clogs minute airways
Cycle repeated throughout both lungs
, 2
Airways only partially obstructed
Allow air in
Expulsion of air hindered by mucus and/or
airway swelling
Wheezing, crackles in airways
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Rhinorrhea, atelectasis, hypoxemia
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May lead to apnea, pulmonary edema
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RSV is the primary cause of? Ans: Respiratory
Infections among children and older adults
What standard precautions does RSV require
Ans: Direct precaution - gown and gloves
Risk Factors Ans: Not being breastfed
Secondhand smoke exposure
Attend child care
Live in crowded conditions
Socioeconomically disadvantaged
, 3
Prematurity
Chronic lung disease
Acyanotic congenital heart disease
Reduced immunity
Children <2 years of age, older adults have
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higher risk for complications
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Prevention Ans: - Good hand hygiene
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- RSV can survive on hard surfaces for several
hours
- Medication: palivizumab for infants at high risk
for serious RSV infections, complications
Not effective in treatment of acute RSV infection
Not recommended for use in general prevention
of healthcare-associated
RSV infection
*treat the symptoms and provide comfort*
Clinical Manifestations Ans: - Presentation
begins 3-5 days after exposure
, 4
Rhinorrhea, cough, irritability
Low-grade fever for 1-3 days
- Copious mucus secretions in lung fields, nasal
passages, usually green
- More serious signs, symptoms
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increased irritability
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Excessive coughing
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Wheezing
Call emergency medical services (EMS) for
transport for these symptoms- Ans: Marked
retractions of ribcage
Nasal flaring
Rapid respiratory rate
Blue skin
Listlessness
Periods without breathing