American Board of Family Medicine (ABFM) Practice Exam 2026 - Free ABFM Practice Questions and Study Guide

The non-pharmacological management for bronchiolitis in a 6-month-old infant focuses on supportive care, with an emphasis on minimizing respiratory distress and enhancing comfort. Nebulized hypertonic saline is a viable option in this context, as it can help to mobilize secretions and improve airway hydration, which may alleviate some of the symptoms associated with bronchiolitis.

This treatment works by drawing water into the airway surface liquid, helping to thin mucus and facilitate its clearance, thereby potentially easing breathing for the infant. The use of nebulized hypertonic saline has been studied in the management of bronchiolitis, and while its efficacy can vary, it is a commonly employed method as part of supportive care.

In contrast, other options like high-flow nasal cannula are more invasive and not categorized strictly as non-pharmacological interventions. Corticosteroids and ribavirin therapy are both considered pharmacological treatments. Corticosteroids have not shown benefit in typical cases of viral bronchiolitis, and ribavirin is an antiviral medication used in specific, severe cases and not general bronchiolitis treatment. Therefore, nebulized hypertonic saline aligns with current guidelines emphasizing supportive, non-pharmacological strategies for managing