Home management of the child with viral croup (laryngotracheobronchitis).

Laryngotracheobronchitis (LTB), also known as "croup," is a perennial viral infection that commonly affects young children in the cold season of the year. Croup, with its distinguishable symptoms of "barking seal cough," inspiratory stridor, and late-night occurrence, can be frightening for child and parents but can be managed effectively at home. This article outlines the nurse practitioner's (NP) instructions for LTB home management, triage of symptoms, and anticipatory guidance regarding course of the illness. Guidelines for assessment of the parent's self-care abilities and referral criteria are also given. The differential diagnosis of epiglottitis is reviewed and the need for immediate referral is emphasized.