PALS and RSV Training (Part 1)

“The baby is congested, coughing, has a slight fever, and just isn’t eating right.” My advice: take him to the ER. Why would he say something like that with cold-like symptoms?

We’re in the middle of RSV season this year and while the virus doesn’t strike fear into the hearts of healthcare workers like it used to years ago, it still raises concerns when children or babies struggle with RSV (Respiratory Syncytial Virus) symptoms. ). Being trained with knowledge is the best defense against this disease and knowing what to look for is the first step. This highly contagious virus is usually transmitted through droplets that are spread when someone with the virus sneezes, coughs, or blows their nose in the presence of others. Symptoms vary and can manifest differently from adults to children and babies. The typical symptoms of the minor cold in an adult can become threatening when a baby contracts the virus. It is best to take precautions during this time of year to avoid contracting and/or spreading the virus.

Simple steps, such as covering your nose or mouth when coughing or sneezing along with frequent hand washing, are some of the most effective ways to prevent the spread of any disease, particularly RSV. Being aware of the symptoms associated with RSV is another.

According to the US National Library of Medicine, the following is a guide to recognizing some of the symptoms of RSV:

Symptoms vary and differ with age. They usually appear between 4 and 6 days after coming into contact with the virus.

Older children usually only have mild cold-like symptoms, such as a cough, stuffy nose, or low-grade fever.

Babies younger than 1 year may have more severe symptoms and often have more trouble breathing.

In general, RSV symptoms include:

– Bluish discoloration of the skin due to lack of oxygen (cyanosis)

– Difficulty breathing or labored breathing

-Cough

– Croupy cough (often described as a “seal bark” cough)

– Fever

– Nasal flaring

– Rapid breathing (tachypnea)

– Difficulty breathing

– Nasal congestion

– Wheezing

If babies or young children experience these symptoms, follow-up with a pediatrician is suggested. Respiratory distress, characterized by the above symptoms, particularly in infants, warrants a call to 9-1-1. Appropriate protocols used by prehospital personnel trained in Neonatal Resuscitation (NRP) or Pediatric Advanced Life Support (PALS) protocols will initiate measures to protect the infant’s or child’s airway and prevent possible respiratory arrest.

Parents who are educated and alert to the symptoms typically found in RSV can have peace of mind knowing what to look for and what to do. Regular checkups with your pediatrician are recommended to help prevent illnesses and conditions common to the winter months. Using good hygiene and personal protection measures, such as frequent hand washing, including staying out of public to prevent the spread of the virus, is the best preventative course of action. Any symptom of respiratory distress or concern about the above combination of symptoms warrants a call to 9-1-1.

Staying alert during the RSV season makes the winter months an enjoyable time for children and their parents. Breathe easy this winter and keep the RSV at bay!