Predictors of Inappropriate Use of Diagnostic Tests and Management of Bronchiolitis

BACKGROUND The aim of the present study was to determine predictors of inappropriate use of diagnostic tests and management of bronchiolitis in a population of hospitalized infants. METHODS In an analytical cross-sectional study, we determined independent predictors of the inappropriate use of diagnostic tests and management of bronchiolitis in a population of hospitalized infants. We defined a composite outcome score as the main outcome variable. RESULTS Of the 303 included patients, 216 (71.3%) experienced an inappropriate use of diagnostic tests and treatment of bronchiolitis. After controlling for potential confounders, it was found that atopic dermatitis (OR 5.30; CI 95% 1.14-24.79; p = 0.034), length of hospital stay (OR 1.48; CI 95% 1.08-2.03; p = 0.015), and the number of siblings (OR 1.92; CI 95% 1.13-3.26; p = 0.015) were independent predictors of an inappropriate use of diagnostic tests and treatment of the disease. CONCLUSIONS Inappropriate use of diagnostic tests and treatment of bronchiolitis was a highly prevalent outcome in our population of study. Participants with atopic dermatitis, a longer hospital stay, and a greater number of siblings were at increased risk for inappropriate use of diagnostic tests and management of the disease.