A RETROSPECTIVE STUDY ON THE EFFECT OF NEBULIZED HYPERTONIC SALINE (3%) VS. EPINEPHRINE ON ADMISSION RATES AMONG INFANTS WITH ACUTE MODERATE TO SEVERE BRONCHIOLITIS AT AFHSR

Bronchiolitis is a prevalent respiratory condition in infants, often leading to hospitalizations and significant healthcare costs. This retrospective study evaluates the efficacy of nebulized hypertonic saline (3%) and epinephrine in reducing admission rates among infants with acute moderate to severe bronchiolitis at Armed Forces Hospital Southern Region (AFHSR), Saudi Arabia. Data were analyzed from 303 infants aged 6 weeks to 24 months, admitted between Jan 2021to Jan 2025. The cohort comprised predominantly male infants (57.8%), with 69.6% aged 1-12 months. A significant portion (33.7%) required NICU admission, reflecting disease severity. Most patients presented with symptoms such as cough and shortness of breath, with abnormal vital signs observed in 74% of cases.Results revealed a significant difference in hospital stay duration between the two treatment groups (p = 0.011). Patients treated with nebulized hypertonic saline had a shorter mean length of stay compared to those receiving epinephrine, highlighting its potential efficacy. However, both treatments showed benefits in managing bronchiolitis symptoms. The study underscores the need for targeted care for younger, low-weight infants and those requiring NICU support. While hypertonic saline shows promise, further research is needed to confirm its role in emergency settings. This study provides valuable insights into improving clinical practices for bronchiolitis management, emphasizing early detection, supportive care, and resource-efficient interventions.