A nurse is caring for a 2-year-old child who has been admitted with a suspected RSV infection.
The child’s mother reports that the child has had a runny nose, fever, and decreased appetite for the past two days.
The nurse notes that the child appears irritable and has a persistent cough.
Based on these symptoms, the nurse suspects that the child’s illness may progress to bronchiolitis or pneumonia, which could cause more severe respiratory distress.
What statement should the nurse make to educate the mother about the potential progression of RSV infection?

Choice B rationale:

Offering frequent small feedings of breast milk or formula to maintain nutrition is an appropriate response.

Infants with RSV may experience decreased appetite and difficulty feeding due to respiratory distress.

Providing small, frequent feedings ensures that the infant receives adequate nutrition and hydration despite reduced intake during each feeding session.

Choice A rationale:

Giving the baby aspirin if they develop a fever is not recommended.

Aspirin use in children with viral infections like RSV has been associated with Reye's syndrome, a severe and potentially fatal condition.

Acetaminophen or ibuprofen, if appropriate for the child's age, can be used to manage fever and discomfort.

Choice C rationale:

Keeping the baby in a flat position to promote comfort is not advisable.

Elevating the head of the crib or bassinet slightly can help improve breathing and reduce nasal congestion in infants with respiratory infections, promoting better comfort and easier breathing.

Choice D rationale:

Stopping all feedings if the baby seems to be having trouble breathing is not The correct approach.

Adequate nutrition is crucial for the infant's overall health and recovery.

Instead, the caregiver should seek medical advice if the baby experiences significant difficulty breathing or feeding.

Adjustments in feeding techniques or temporary alternative feeding methods may be recommended under medical supervision.

Choice A rationale:

Your child may start to experience difficulty breathing.

This statement is accurate and crucial for the mother to be aware of.

RSV infections can progress to bronchiolitis or pneumonia, leading to more severe respiratory distress.

Difficulty breathing is a common symptom in these advanced stages of the infection, indicating the need for immediate medical attention.

Choice B rationale:

While a decreased appetite is a symptom mentioned in the scenario, it does not reflect the potential progression of RSV infection.

The focus should be on respiratory symptoms, which can indicate worsening conditions.

Choice C rationale:

Drowsiness is not a typical symptom of RSV progression.

Respiratory distress, such as difficulty breathing, is a more concerning sign and requires prompt medical evaluation.

Choice D rationale:

Developing a high fever is a general symptom of various infections, including RSV.

While fever is a concern, the scenario specifically mentions symptoms related to the respiratory system, making difficulty breathing a more relevant and specific warning sign for the mother to be aware of.