Pediatric ATI Practice Exam

Coughing and wheezing are hallmark symptoms of respiratory syncytial virus (RSV) in infants. RSV primarily affects the respiratory tract, leading to inflammation and increased mucus production. As a result, infants with RSV often present with a cough as they attempt to clear their airways. Wheezing occurs due to the narrowing of the airways, which can lead to a high-pitched whistling sound during breathing. These symptoms, along with possible respiratory distress, are significant indicators of RSV infection and are particularly concerning in young children and infants, who may have more severe manifestations of the virus.

While decreased appetite can be observed in some infants during illness, it is not as specific to RSV as coughing and wheezing. High fever may occur but is not a consistent symptom with RSV, as many infants may have a normal or low-grade fever. Change in stool color is unrelated to RSV and is not a typical symptom of respiratory infections.