Role of a nurse in the care of a child hospitalized because of obstructive bronchitis - case study

Abstract

Introduction. Obstructive bronchitis is a characteristic form of respiratory infection. The bronchial lumen narrows and the mucus in the airways are overproduced resulting in shortness breath that is life-threatening for a child. The symptoms of inflammation can very depend on the etiological agent causing the disease. The main symptoms include cough, low-grade fever, increased swelling of the airways, shortness of breath and increased mucus accumulation. Obstructive bronchitis is more often diagnosed in children due to their immaturity of the respiratory system and undeveloped immunity. The highest incidence of the disease occurs in the case of children attending kindergarten or nursery. Relapses of the disease are a common phenomenon, mainly in autumn and winter.

Aim. The aim of this paper is to present the scope of tasks of a paediatric nurse applied to a child with obstructive bronchitis and to present nursing problems resulting from the disease.

Case study. A 6-month-old boy admitted to the paediatric ward a general average condition on the first day of hospitalisation due to dyspnoea and persistently elevated body temperature. Laboratory tests carried out in accordance with the doctor's order showed increased indicators responsible for inflammation in the body. The boy was diagnosed with obstructive bronchitis. For several days, there has been a dry, tiring cough along with gag reflexes when it intensifies. The child's body temperature of 39.0°C has been documented. The boy is restless, reluctance to take meals has been observed. The patient and their caregivers are generally concerned about the need for hospitalization. The boy's parents show a deficit of knowledge about respiratory infections and prevention of relapses.

Conclusion. Nursing problems of a child diagnosed with obstructive bronchitis require the presence and care of the entire therapeutic team, because the occurring shortness of breath is a threat to the child's life. The problems identified in the patient include breathing disorders due to persistent shortness of breath, infective expectoration of residual bronchial secretions, risk of dehydration due to increased body temperature, risk of weight loss due to reluctance to take food, risk of infection, as well as the need for comprehensive education the child's parents about the disease and prevention.