In bronchiolitis management, which treatment is typically avoided?

• A. Bronchodilators
• B. Nasal suctioning
• C. Routine antibiotics
• D. Adequate hydration

Answer: (B)

Bronchiolitis is usually caused by a virus, so the primary management is supportive care rather than pharmacologic therapy. The treatment that is typically avoided is routine antibiotics because they target bacteria, not viruses, and using them without a bacterial infection can lead to unnecessary side effects and antibiotic resistance. Antibiotics are reserved only when there’s a reasonable suspicion or confirmation of a bacterial coinfection. Alongside this, supportive measures like nasal suctioning to clear the nasal passages and improve breathing and feeding, and ensuring adequate hydration, are commonly used. Bronchodilators may be considered in certain cases, but they’re not routinely effective and aren’t a standard requirement of care.