A PROSPECTIVE STUDY ON ASSESSMENT OF RISK FACTORS AND MANAGEMENT OF LOWER RESPIRATORY TRACT INFECTIONS IN PAEDIATRICS

Abstract

Aim & Objective: The main aim of the study to assess the risk factors and management of lower respiratory tract infections in the department of pediatrics and PICU, RIMS Hospital, Kadapa. Method: A prospective observational study was conducted for a period of six months from July 2018 – December 2018. Data was analyzed for patient^’s demographics, risk factors, clinical complications and management. Results: A total of 120 patient^’s data was collected in duration of 6 months, out of which 85 were male and 35 were female. The maximum number of patients (89) were within the age group 1month-1year (Infants).105 patients were of pneumonia followed by Bronchiolitis 15. The most commonly seen risk factors were anemia followed by Low birth weight and pollution from biomass fuels etc. No clinical complications and mortality were reported. Most commonly prescribed drugs were Ceftriaxone, Amikacin and syrup Ambroxol and supportive therapy was given. Conclusion: Major risk factors found were Anemia, low birth weight, pollution from biomass fuels, overcrowding, lack of breast feeding, under nutrition. To conclude, our study clearly highlighted various risk factors, incidence of various Lower respiratory tract infections, complications and mortality if any and management of various Lower respiratory tract infections.