bronchiolitis OSCE scenario
explain bronchiolitis
candidate brief
You have just reviewed Daisy, a 6 month old brought in with respiratory distress. Your impression is that she has bronchiolitis, but is currently settled. Her parent has some questions for you.
Communication skills 40% Knowledge 60%
actor brief
You are the parent of a 6 month old girl who has been coughing for 2 days. In the last 24h her breathing has become more crackly and wheezy. You gave salbutamol that your older child is prescribed at home but that did not seem to work. You are worried and want to know why the inhaler was ineffective. In particular, you are concerned about your child's likelihood of developing asthma in the future.
examiner brief
Teaching/communication skills
- washes hands, introduces self, confirms patient identity
- Takes brief history
- Confirms patient doesn’t have life threatening wheeze/ensures safety of patient
- Explains diagnosis
- Usually viral illness
- Noisy breathing from secretions rather than smooth muscle contraction
- Explains why salbutamol won’t work
- Explains supportive treatment is all that is usually required
- Some children may need oxygen or help with feeding
- Safety-nets well
- Has a reassuring manner
- Offers to examine child
- Elicits questions
- Thanks patient
revision topic: Viral bronchiolitis