PEDIATRIC CROUP

Is pre hospital nebulizer epinephrine the best and only treatment option for pediatric croup?

Is pre hospital nebulizer epinephrine the best and only treatment option for pediatric croup?

Introduction

Croup (or laryngotracheobronchitis) refers to a group of conditions involving inflammation of the upper airway, which causes a dry cough similar to the barking of a dog, particularly during crying. Most of these episodes are caused by viruses, but sometimes similar symptoms can be caused by bacteria or an allergic reaction. The virus most often implicated is parainfluenza virus (which causes most cases), adenovirus, respiratory syncytial virus, influenza virus and measles. Most cases of viral croup occur in children between three months and five years of age. Croup conditions are common during fall, winter and early spring, and their symptoms are more severe in children under three years. Most cases of viral croup are mild and can be treated at home, although, in rare cases, croup can be severe and even endanger the life of a child. Some children are more prone to developing croup, especially those born prematurely or with upper airway narrower than normal, as were infants with a history of breathing problems like asthma. Croup affects 3% of children under 6 years with a peak incidence between 1 and 2 cases per 1000 child.

The aim of this study was to determine the efficacy of nebulized epinephrine and nebulized salbutamol on clinical score and oxygen saturation in infants between 2 months and 12 months of age with bronchiolitis. A total of 50 children who met the inclusion criteria and clinical diagnosis of croups are to be included in the study and randomized to receive nebulized epinephrine (3mi) or nebulized salbutarnol (0.5 mi) in a single dose. Measurements include the clinical score and oxygen saturation at 30, 60 and 90 minutes after treatment. An additional finding for final condition of the patient as high, stationary or failure is to be drawn. The side effects between the treatment groups for both nebulized epinephrine and nebulized salbutarnol will also be noted.

Problem

What is the efficacy of nebulized epinephrine and nebulized salbutamol on clinical score and oxygen saturation in infants between 2 months and 12 months of age with croups?

Hypothesis

Nebulised adrenaline is more effective than nebulized salbutamol, improving the clinical score and oxygen saturation in infants between 2 months and 12 months of age with bronchiolitis.

Objectives

Determine the efficacy of nebulised adrenaline on clinical score and oxygen saturation in infants with bronchiolitis.

To determine the efficacy of nebulized salbutamol on clinical score and oxygen saturation in infants with Bronquioiitis.

Compare whether differences exist between nebulized adrenaline and nebulized salbutamol on clinical score and oxygen saturation in infants with bronchiolitis

Identify the side effects) to nebulized epinephrine and nebulized salbutamol in infants with bronchiolitis,

Research Design and Methodology

This study will classically designed. A comparative examination will be conducted in the Pediatric Emergency Service of the Regional Hospital of Edinburgh.

Study Population or Sample

A total of 50 patients attending the Pediatric Emergency Service of Edinburgh Regional Hospital with a clinical diagnosis of croups will ...