The primary caretaker manages most cases of RSV on an outpatient basis. Even in the hospitalized child with RSV infection, consultation with a subspecialist is not necessary.
An infectious diseases evaluation may be indicated if ribavirin therapy is being considered or if bacterial superinfection is considered. Infectious disease specialists often also play a role in addressing epidemiologic concerns regarding patient isolation, nosocomial transmission, and infection control.
A pediatric pulmonologist may be consulted if an infant has neonatal chronic lung disease (CLD) or if assistance is needed with decisions regarding respiratory support.
Consultation with an intensivist is advised if the child requires mechanical ventilation or has marked respiratory distress. An intensivist may also be of assistance in difficult situations, eg, in a child with congenital heart disease or CLD, which may complicate assessment of hydration status and optimal fluid management.
Learn more about consultations in infant and pediatric RSV.
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Any views expressed above are the author's own and do not necessarily reflect the views of WebMD or Medscape.
Cite this: Asif Noor. Fast Five Quiz: Pediatric Respiratory Syncytial Virus Management - Medscape - Mar 03, 2022.
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