Method of Hydration for Infants Admitted With Bronchiolitis: Physician or Parental Choice?

Objectives This study examines the practice patterns with respect to the technique of non-oral hydration of infants admitted with bronchiolitis at one Canadian tertiary care institution. Additionally, the authors assess the infants’ parents’ attitudes regarding hydration through a nasogastric (NG) tube instead of an intravenous (IV) line. Methods A retrospective chart review was conducted for all infants admitted with bronchiolitis from May 1, 2016, to April 30, 2018, with a focus on the method of hydration, investigation with chest radiography, and use of IV antibiotics. Parents of infants who received IV fluids during the admission were surveyed by mail to assess their perceptions surrounding their child's experience with IV fluid therapy as well as their attitudes toward NG hydration, particularly in cases of difficult IV access. Results Of the 101 hospitalized infants, 54 received IV fluids and four received NG fluids. Of the 54 eligible for the survey, 17 completed surveys were returned. Parents were likely to consider NG hydration if suggested by their pediatrician. The proportion was extremely or very likely to consider this intervention increased from 29% in a generic situation to 53% in a scenario where there was more than one unsuccessful IV attempt (p=0.03). Conclusions In the institution studied, NG hydration was rarely used. Parents seemed receptive to the idea of NG hydration as an alternative, particularly when IV access is difficult.