What is the priority nursing intervention for bronchiolitis with nasal obstruction to maintain airway patency?

• A. Ensure hydration and provide nasal suctioning to maintain airway patency.
• B. Initiate aggressive antibiotic therapy immediately.
• C. Avoid any oral fluids to prevent aspiration.
• D. Delay oxygen therapy until severe hypoxia.

Answer: (A)

Maintaining airway patency in bronchiolitis with nasal obstruction hinges on clearing the nasal passages and keeping secretions thin through adequate hydration. Suctioning nasal secretions reduces obstruction and work of breathing, making it easier for the infant to breathe and feed. Hydration helps keep secretions thin and supports mucociliary clearance, which is crucial when the airway is inflamed and congested.

Antibiotics aren’t routinely needed because bronchiolitis is usually viral, unless a bacterial infection is suspected. Avoiding oral fluids isn’t correct—encouraging fluids (or IV hydration if needed) supports hydration. Oxygen therapy should be provided when hypoxemia is present, not delayed. So the combination of hydration and nasal suctioning to keep the airway clear is the priority.