This study is a single center, randomized controlled trial in the pediatric emergency department (ED) at Dell Children’s Medical Center (DCMC) of Central Texas. Patients meeting inclusion and exclusion criteria are identified by research personnel at the time of ED discharge home.
Following consent, patients are randomized to receive home nebulized albuterol or supportive management.
Both groups receive:
- A pre-study questionnaire to complete at time of enrollment
- Education on supportive management and anticipatory guidance
- A home diary and pre-stamped return envelope
Both groups are offered nasal saline and a bulb aspirator if needed for home. The nebulized albuterol group receives teaching on device use before discharge and are given the nebulizer and a prescription for albuterol. The diary is to be completed for at least 72 hours, or until symptomatic resolution, and the return packet is to be returned within 7 days following discharge. Research personnel will call all families 7 days post original ED discharge to 1) verbally obtain post-study questionnaire and 2) remind families to send in their return packets.
Inclusion
- Children 3-24 months of age being discharged home from DCMC ED with a diagnosis of bronchiolitis
- Caregiver fluent in English or Spanish
Exclusion
- Previous enrollment in this study
- Provider preference to discharge with or without albuterol
- Diagnosis of asthma or reactive airway disease
- Current bacterial pneumonia
- Chronic lung disease
- Significant underlying cardiac disease
- Chronic neuromuscular disease
- Allergy to albuterol
- Parent or caregiver unwilling or unlikely to complete diary or follow up phone call
Timeline
This study is currently enrolling with an anticipated completion date of 3/2025.