West Coast EMT Block Two Exam

Respiratory syncytial virus (RSV) is a common viral infection that primarily affects the respiratory system, particularly in young children. When a child presents with symptoms of RSV, such as wheezing, coughing, and difficulty breathing, they are typically diagnosed with bronchiolitis. This is a condition characterized by inflammation and congestion in the small airways (bronchioles) of the lungs, often triggered by RSV.

Bronchiolitis usually manifests with symptoms including a runny nose, cough, and wheezing, which directly correlate with how RSV impacts the respiratory system, leading to obstruction and respiratory distress. In infants and young children, this viral infection can progress to significant respiratory complications, highlighting the importance of early recognition and appropriate management.

In contrast, other conditions like pertussis (whooping cough), epiglottitis, and croup have distinct clinical features and underlying pathophysiology that do not align with the typical presentation of RSV. Pertussis is marked by severe coughing fits and a characteristic "whoop," epiglottitis presents with a sore throat and difficulty swallowing, while croup is characterized by a barking cough and stridor due to upper airway inflammation. These differences in symptoms and affected areas of the