What is the appropriate action for a nurse caring for an infant with RSV experiencing respiratory distress?

In the context of an infant with respiratory syncytial virus (RSV) experiencing respiratory distress, providing heated, high-flow nasal cannula therapy is considered an appropriate action. This specific intervention is beneficial because it delivers a high flow of humidified oxygen, which can improve oxygenation and decrease the work of breathing. The warmth and humidity help to keep the airways moist and aid in the clearance of secretions, which is particularly important in infants with RSV, as they often have increased secretions and airway inflammation.

Other interventions, while they may be beneficial in different contexts, are not as directly suited to the management of respiratory distress in infants with RSV. Administering bronchodilators, for example, is not routinely indicated in RSV cases unless there is evidence of significant wheezing or reactive airway disease. Monitoring oxygen saturation is an essential component of care and should be performed, but it is a supportive action rather than a therapeutic intervention for respiratory distress. Finally, encouraging deep breathing exercises is not feasible for infants and is more applicable to older children or adults who can understand and perform the technique.