What is the appropriate treatment for more severe cases of bronchiolitis?

In more severe cases of bronchiolitis, particularly those caused by respiratory syncytial virus (RSV), the appropriate treatment involves IV hydration, ribavirin, and RSV-IG prophylaxis. This approach is aligned with the clinical needs of severe cases, where patients may exhibit significant respiratory distress, dehydration, or complications arising from viral infections.

IV hydration is essential in severe cases to ensure proper fluid balance and prevent dehydration, particularly since infants and young children with bronchiolitis may struggle to maintain adequate oral intake. Ribavirin, an antiviral medication, may be indicated in certain hospitalized patients with severe RSV infection; it is administered through aerosolization and may help in situations where there is significant concern about the viral load in the respiratory system. RSV-IG prophylaxis is typically done for high-risk infants to prevent severe RSV disease, though in an emergency setting, this may be part of the broader management for particularly vulnerable individuals.

In contrast, less severe management strategies like oral steroids, albuterol, and home care with humidified air are more appropriate for milder cases of bronchiolitis, where the primary focus is on supportive care rather than aggressive treatment measures. These options do not address the critical needs presented in more severe scenarios or the