Respiratory Rehabilitation in children with acute respiratory infection: an integrative literature review
DOI:
https://doi.org/10.33194/rper.2026.44419Keywords:
Respiratory Tract Infections, Child, Respiratory Therapy, Rehabilitation NursingAbstract
Introduction: Acute respiratory infections are a major cause of morbidity in children, particularly those under five years of age. Respiratory rehabilitation has been used to improve respiratory function and support clinical recovery. This study aims to identify and analyze the available evidence on respiratory rehabilitation interventions that promote improved respiratory function in children with acute respiratory infection.
Methodology: Integrative literature review based on a PIO question. The search was conducted in July 2025 in EBSCOhost® databases and included primary studies published in the last ten years.
Results: Ten studies were included, mostly randomized controlled trials, analysing respiratory rehabilitation interventions in children with acute respiratory infections, in both inpatient and outpatient settings. Interventions included modern, conventional, and instrumental techniques. Overall, improvements in clinical and functional outcomes were observed, with some studies reporting reductions in length of hospital stay. Few and generally mild adverse effects were reported.
Discussion: Despite generally favourable results, the evidence shows methodological heterogeneity, small sample sizes, and variability in outcomes, limiting comparability across studies.
Conclusion: Respiratory rehabilitation may contribute to improved respiratory function in children with acute respiratory infections. However, more robust studies are needed to support consistent clinical recommendations.
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