title: Strategies for reducing the risk of respiratory syncytial virus infection in infants and young children: a Canadian nurses' perspective.
abstract: Respiratory syncytial virus (RSV) infections are prevalent globally and can cause substantial morbidity in infants and young children. The virus is easily transmitted by direct hand-to-hand contact and can lead to serious respiratory disease and hospitalization, particularly in premature infants and children with certain medical conditions. Educating families with young children, especially those in remote rural regions, regarding the potential adverse health outcomes of RSV infection and measures to reduce the risk of transmitting or acquiring RSV has been a key focus of the health care system in Canada. Geographic, cultural, and socioeconomic factors present formidable challenges to the execution of this endeavor. Therefore, it is critical to develop and systematically implement effective educational programs for both families and health care providers. In Canada, nurses play a critical role in education and counseling. In this review, we share our perspectives and suggest empirical practices that may be applicable worldwide.
authors.affiliation: Neonatal Intensive Care Unit, Mount Sinai Hospital, 775 A-600 University Avenue, Toronto, Ontario M5G 1X5, Canada. mbracht@mtsinai.on.ca
authors.forename: Marianne
authors.initials: M
authors.lastname: Bracht
authors.forename: Debbie
authors.initials: D
authors.lastname: Basevitz
authors.forename: Marilyn
authors.initials: M
authors.lastname: Cranis
authors.forename: Rose
authors.initials: R
authors.lastname: Paulley
authors.forename: Bosco
authors.initials: B
authors.lastname: Paes
mesh_terms: D001291:Attitude of Health Personnel; D002170:Canada; D017028:Caregivers / Q000193:education; D002675:Child, Preschool; D054626:Consumer Health Information; D054521:Cultural Competency; D037001:Directive Counseling; D004502:Education, Medical, Continuing; D004509:Education, Nursing, Continuing; D006293:Health Promotion / Q000379:methods*; D006801:Humans; D007223:Infant; D007231:Infant, Newborn; D018357:Respiratory Syncytial Virus Infections / Q000209:etiology / Q000451:nursing / Q000517:prevention & control* / Q000635:transmission; D012307:Risk Factors; D012621:Seasons