Thread: R.s.v.???????
View Single Post
  #8  
Old 01-15-2009, 08:41 PM
RNFosterMom RNFosterMom is offline
Member
Join Date: Oct 2008
Posts: 138
Total Points: 13,061.35
Donate
As the other posters have said, RSV is a nasty virus that's very contagious. I recall a lecture in nursing school where they said the virus lasts 13 hours on surfaces! Frequent handwashing and antibacterial cleaning on all surfaces, toys, etc. is especially important during the winter months. A weak bleach/water solution can be made up each day. You can find "recipes" for this by doing a search about sanitizing toys. Another important thing is not letting them be around any smoke or minimizing contact w/smokers (because smoke permeates their clothing). I noticed that several of my RSV and bronchitis patients had parents who were smokers.

As others noted, be sure to watch their work of breathing by noting any nasal flaring, grunting, retractions or posturing. If you see any of these signs, they need to be seen by a doctor. Kids can maintain their breathing for a while, but then can get tired out quickly and that's when they're in real trouble.
Reply With Quote