A client with RSV asks a nurse about the pathophysiology of their infection.
Which of the following explanations should the nurse provide?

Choice A rationale:

RSV (Respiratory Syncytial Virus) primarily affects young children and infants, making them more vulnerable to severe complications.

Adults can also contract the virus, but it is most common and dangerous in children under one year old.

Therefore, stating that RSV is most common in adults is incorrect.

Choice B rationale:

RSV is most common in children under one year old, so your grandchildren could be at risk.

This statement is correct.

RSV is highly contagious and spreads through respiratory droplets.

Infants and young children are more prone to severe infections due to their underdeveloped immune systems.

Hence, the nurse should educate the client that their grandchildren, especially those under one year old, are at risk of contracting RSV.

Choice C rationale:

RSV does affect individuals with compromised immune systems, but it is not limited to them.

Children, especially those under one year old, are also highly susceptible to RSV infections.

Therefore, this statement is not comprehensive and accurate.

Choice D rationale:

RSV can be transmitted from person to person through respiratory secretions.

It is highly contagious, especially in crowded places like daycare centers and hospitals.

This statement is incorrect, as RSV transmission is well-documented.

Choice A rationale:

The nurse should educate the client about the expected course of RSV infection in infants.

RSV (Respiratory Syncytial Virus) infection can lead to complications such as bronchiolitis or pneumonia, especially in children under the age of 3.

Symptoms like wheezing and tachypnea are indicative of respiratory distress.

Educating the client about the expected duration of the symptoms is crucial.

The client needs to understand that the baby's symptoms may last for about 10 days, and this is a common timeframe for the resolution of RSV infection in infants.

This information helps manage the client's expectations and reduces anxiety.

Choice B rationale:

While fever can be a sign of infection, it is not the most pertinent symptom to monitor in this case.

The primary concern is the respiratory distress caused by bronchiolitis or pneumonia.

While fever might indicate worsening infection, it is not the most relevant information in this context.

Choice C rationale:

Over-the-counter cold medicine is generally not recommended for infants and young children due to the risk of side effects.

Moreover, these medications may not be effective in managing the specific symptoms caused by RSV infection.

Advising the client to administer such medication could be harmful and is not an appropriate response.

Choice D rationale:

While it is essential to prevent the spread of RSV infection, especially among siblings, this choice does not address the client's understanding of the infant's condition.

The primary concern here is the client's grasp of the infant's symptoms and the expected course of the illness, which is best addressed by choice A.