Suctioning Clinic- Using inpatient resources to create an outpatient care model for bronchiolitis

Abstract

Purpose Bronchiolitis is the leading reason for hospital admission for children < 2 years old. A frequent reason for admission is dehydration due to poor oral intake secondary to significant upper airway congestion. Our care model uses inpatient resources to help prevent admissions through early interventions and good suctioning techniques. Method Children four weeks to 24 months old are initially evaluated during an acute visit by a community physician and they are approved for the Suctioning Clinic. To be eligible a child must be medically stable, though at potential risk for …