Authors

Allison Larkin

Keywords

Vitamin D, Acute Lower Respiratory Infection, Pneumonia, Bronchiolitis

Abstract

Introduction: Acute lower respiratory infection (ALRI) is the leading cause of mortality in children 5 years and younger. The purposes of this literature review were to examine vitamin D deficiency (VDD) and ALRI in children 5 years and younger and make recommendations regarding vitamin D to prevent ALRI. Method: Databases were searched for studies investigating VDD and ALRI in children 5 years and younger. Two independent reviewers assessed internal validity using the U.S. Preventive Services Task Force grading criteria. Results: Eighteen studies met inclusion criteria. VDD was associated with increased risk or increased severity of ALRI in 13 studies, but 4 studies did not find significant associations. One study found high maternal vitamin D was associated with ALRI in infants. Discussion: Research suggests VDD puts children at risk for ALRI. Vitamin D supplementation is a low-cost, low-risk intervention providers should consider for children, especially those at high risk for ALRI.

Description

The College of Nursing showcases some of our best evidence based scholarly papers from graduate students in the Family Nurse Practitioner Program. The papers address relevant clinical problems for advance practice nurses and are based on the best evidence available. Using a systematic approach students critically analyze and synthesize the research studies to determine the strength of the evidence regarding the clinical problem. Based on the findings, recommendations are made for clinical practice. The papers are published in professional journals and presented at professional meetings.

Document Type

Master's Project

Publication Date

2013-06-10

Permanent URL

http://hdl.lib.byu.edu/1877/3103

Language

English

College

Nursing

University Standing at Time of Publication

Graduate Student

Included in

Nursing Commons

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