In the management of RSV in hospitalized patients, which therapy is most important to administer first?

Prepare for the PANCE Board Exam with our comprehensive quiz. Study with detailed questions and explanations. Sharpen your skills and boost your confidence for exam day!

Multiple Choice

In the management of RSV in hospitalized patients, which therapy is most important to administer first?

In hospitalized RSV cases, the most important step is to target the virus itself when appropriate. Ribavirin is an antiviral option that directly reduces RSV replication and is used in severe or high-risk inpatients (such as those who are immunocompromised). That makes it the best choice to initiate first among the options. Bronchodilators like albuterol may be used if wheezing is prominent but they don’t change the course of RSV bronchiolitis. Acetaminophen helps with fever and discomfort but doesn’t treat the infection itself. Dexamethasone has not shown clear, consistent benefit in RSV and is not routinely used as a first-line therapy.

In hospitalized RSV cases, the most important step is to target the virus itself when appropriate. Ribavirin is an antiviral option that directly reduces RSV replication and is used in severe or high-risk inpatients (such as those who are immunocompromised). That makes it the best choice to initiate first among the options.

Bronchodilators like albuterol may be used if wheezing is prominent but they don’t change the course of RSV bronchiolitis. Acetaminophen helps with fever and discomfort but doesn’t treat the infection itself. Dexamethasone has not shown clear, consistent benefit in RSV and is not routinely used as a first-line therapy.

More practice questions