Honestly don't get!

macawake, MSN · Mar 24, 2016

I honestly do not understand the different between RSV and Viral Pneumonia?
Everywhere I have looked for an answer only says that RSV can lead to Pneumonia but doesn't explain the difference. They seem to be treated the same.
Anyone know?

"Viral pneumonia" is simply an umbrella term for any pneumonia caused by a virus. (As opposed to a pneumonia caused by bacteria or fungi). Examples of viruses that can cause pneumonia are: influenza virus (A and B), human parainfluenza viruses, adenoviruses, coronaviruses and Respiratory Syncytial Virus.

About Respiratory Syncytial Virus:

RSV | Infection and Incidence | Respiratory Syncytial Virus | CDC

RSV can cause upper respiratory infections (such as colds) and lower respiratory tract infections (such as bronchiolitis and pneumonia). In children younger than 1 year of age, RSV is the most common cause of bronchiolitis, an inflammation of the small airways in the lung, and pneumonia, an infection of the lungs.

(my bold)

So, an RSV infection doesn't always result in pneumonia but when it does, it is a viral pneumonia.

OP, I noticed that you have a history going back to 2014 of asking similar questions where you say that you've looked but can't come up with an answer. Just the other day you asked another question pertaining to RSV and received replies and suggestions about how to obtain information about medical issues. You haven't responded in that thread to the replies you received on that query. If someone takes time out of their day to answer your questions, some sort of acknowledgement or feedback from you is appreciated. My goal when I answer questions like yours is to try to help the person learn how to help themselves. I'm not convinced that it's helpful to just keep serving you the answers.

NICUmiiki, DNP, NP · Mar 24, 2016

RSV is a virus. It is a pathogen that can make you sick.

Viral pneumonia is a condition. It occurs when a virus (RSV or others) makes you sick.

LadyFree28, BSN, LPN, RN · Mar 24, 2016

Where have you looked OP?

Most of this information is found in Pediatric books, from nursing school and in supplemental pediatric nursing books that are available to nursing professionals.

I remember learning about RSV in nursing school; as well as the difference between bacterial and viral pneumonia.

Think about testing for viruses, also diagnostic testing when treating children with respiratory symptoms, hence why a definite diagnosis is reached; if a pt has viral pneumonia and they have been tested and found to have RSV or Flu A/B, then the cause of the pneumonia is a virus; also remember that other viruses can cause viral pneumonia as well-again, it just depends on the definitive diagnosis.

As a new grad, I see that you are seeking out answers; I will also behoove you to purchase supplemental books that are available about pediatric nursing, pediatric illnesses so that you can expand your knowledge base and continue your self studies more thoroughly. :)