EFFICACY OF NEBULIZED MAGNESIUM SULPHATE IN ACUTE BRONCHIOLITIS IN PATIENT ADMITTED TO PEDIATRIC WARD OF BACHA KHAN MEDICAL COMPLEX/ GAJJU KHAN MEDICAL COLLEGE SWABI

Abstract

Bronchiolitis, a common respiratory illness in pediatric patients, often caused by viruses like respiratory syncytial virus (RSV) leads to airway inflammation and symptoms such as coughing and difficulty breathing, often requiring hospitalization. Nebulized magnesium sulfate has garnered attention for its potential to alleviate symptoms due to its bronchodilator and anti-inflammatory effects. The study aimed to evaluate the efficacy of Nebulized Magnesium Sulphate therapy compared to standard treatment in managing acute bronchiolitis. In this prospective, randomized controlled trial conducted at Bacha Khan Medical Complex/Gajju Khan Medical College's pediatric ward in Swabi, 148 pediatric patients aged 1 month to 2 years diagnosed with acute bronchiolitis were enrolled. The standard treatment group comprised 76 patients, receiving bronchodilator therapy alone, while the nebulized magnesium sulfate treatment group included 69 patients, receiving nebulized magnesium sulfate in addition to standard therapy. Relevant patient information, including age, sex, socioeconomic status, hospital stay duration, comorbid conditions, and outcomes measured by validated scoring systems such as the Respiratory Distress Assessment Instrument, were recorded. Data were analyzed using SPSS, and a t-test, chi-square correlation and paired tests were conducted for comparison. Despite variations in group sizes due to incomplete records, rigorous methodological protocols were maintained for unbiased randomization and meaningful analysis of outcomes. The analysis revealed similar frequencies of comorbid conditions and complications between the two treatment groups. However, Nebulized Magnesium Sulphate therapy showed a significantly lower mortality rate compared to standard treatment. Additionally, participants in the Nebulized Magnesium Sulphate group had a longer hospital stay duration. Nebulized Magnesium Sulphate therapy demonstrated promising outcomes in reducing mortality rates compared to standard treatment for acute bronchiolitis. However, further research is needed to optimize treatment protocols and improve overall efficacy.