Page 117 - 2022 Ranger Medic Handbook

Bronchitis
DEFINITION: Inflammation of trachea, bronchi, and bronchioles resulting from upper respiratory tract infection (URI) or
chemical irritants; viruses are the most common cause.
S/Sx: Preceding URI symptoms, cough (initially unproductive, then productive), fatigue, +/– fever > 100.4, +/– dyspnea,
injected pharynx, may have wheezing or unremarkable lung sounds, sputum (color does not differentiate between viral
or bacterial)
MANAGEMENT:
1. Increase PO fluids.
2. Acetaminophen 1,000mg PO q6hr prn fever and Ibuprofen 800mg PO q8hr.
3. Treat symptoms with antitussive, decongestants, expectorant, as needed.
4. If wheezing present, Albuterol MDI 2 puffs q4–6hr.
5. Ensure smoking cessation and enforce hydration. Consider throat lozenges for accompanying pharyngitis. Consider SECTION 3
O 2 if SpO 2 < 92%. If symptoms worsen or persist, consider treatment as per Pneumonia Protocol.
DISPOSITION: Evacuation usually not required. Observation or Routine evacuation as necessary. Urgent evacuation for
severe dyspnea or hypoxia.
SPECIAL CONSIDERATIONS: Consider high altitude pulmonary edema (HAPE) at high altitudes. Consider pulmonary
embolism (PE) and pneumothorax (fever and productive cough are atypical for these). Acute bronchitis is a common and
generally self-limiting condition that usually does not require antibiotics. Cough may linger for several weeks.

2022 RANGER MEDIC HANDBOOK 103