Field Internship Student Data Acquisition Project. (FISDAP) Airway Practice Exam

Which is a common sign of bronchiolitis?

1. Wheezing

2. Fever

3. Both A and B

4. None of the above

The correct answer is: Both A and B

A common sign of bronchiolitis is wheezing, which occurs due to the inflammation and mucus buildup in the small airways of the lungs, making it difficult for air to pass through. This wheezing can often be heard during both inhalation and exhalation and is characteristic of the obstructive airway disease process that bronchiolitis represents. Additionally, fever is also frequently associated with bronchiolitis, especially in infants and young children. It is a response to infection, as bronchiolitis is often caused by viral infections, such as respiratory syncytial virus (RSV), leading to a fever as the body attempts to fight off the invader. Thus, identifying both wheezing and fever as common signs of bronchiolitis collectively reinforces an understanding of the condition and its clinical presentation, leading to the conclusion that both symptoms are important indicators in diagnosing bronchiolitis.