For a patient presenting with acute bronchitis, which of the following is typically indicated?

For a patient presenting with acute bronchitis, which of the following is typically indicated?

• A. Broad-spectrum antibiotics
• B. Antihistamines for allergies
• C. Supportive care and possible bronchodilators
• D. Corticosteroids at high doses

Answer: (C)

In the case of a patient presenting with acute bronchitis, supportive care and possible bronchodilators are the standard management approach. Acute bronchitis is typically caused by viral infections, and most cases resolve on their own without the need for antibiotics, as they do not target viral pathogens. The focus of treatment is on alleviating symptoms, which may include cough, fatigue, and mild respiratory distress. Supportive care may involve recommending rest, hydration, and possibly over-the-counter medications to relieve cough and discomfort. The use of bronchodilators can be considered if the patient exhibits wheezing or significant bronchospasm, as these medications help to open up the airways and alleviate respiratory symptoms. In contrast to supportive care, broad-spectrum antibiotics are not indicated since they are ineffective against viral infections and can contribute to antibiotic resistance. Antihistamines might be useful for allergic conditions but do not address the predominant symptoms of acute bronchitis. High-dose corticosteroids are generally reserved for more severe cases, such as exacerbations of chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) or asthma, rather than uncomplicated acute bronchitis. Thus, the correct response highlights the importance of appropriate symptom management for a self-limiting viral illness.

In the case of a patient presenting with acute bronchitis, supportive care and possible bronchodilators are the standard management approach. Acute bronchitis is typically caused by viral infections, and most cases resolve on their own without the need for antibiotics, as they do not target viral pathogens. The focus of treatment is on alleviating symptoms, which may include cough, fatigue, and mild respiratory distress.

Supportive care may involve recommending rest, hydration, and possibly over-the-counter medications to relieve cough and discomfort. The use of bronchodilators can be considered if the patient exhibits wheezing or significant bronchospasm, as these medications help to open up the airways and alleviate respiratory symptoms.

In contrast to supportive care, broad-spectrum antibiotics are not indicated since they are ineffective against viral infections and can contribute to antibiotic resistance. Antihistamines might be useful for allergic conditions but do not address the predominant symptoms of acute bronchitis. High-dose corticosteroids are generally reserved for more severe cases, such as exacerbations of chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) or asthma, rather than uncomplicated acute bronchitis.

Thus, the correct response highlights the importance of appropriate symptom management for a self-limiting viral illness.