What action should parents take if their child experiences stridor at rest due to acute spasmodic croup?

When a child experiences stridor at rest due to acute spasmodic croup, it indicates that the airway is significantly compromised and that the child may be at risk for further respiratory distress. Stridor at rest is a clinical sign that suggests the inflammation and edema in the upper airway are severe enough to cause notable obstruction, warranting immediate medical attention.

Taking the child to the emergency department is essential, as healthcare professionals can provide necessary interventions, such as corticosteroids to reduce airway inflammation, nebulized epinephrine to relieve acute symptoms, and closely monitor respiratory status. This immediate response can prevent potential complications like respiratory failure, which can occur if the child is not assessed and treated promptly.

Although supportive measures such as using a cool-mist humidifier can help soothe the airway and may be beneficial in less severe cases, they are not sufficient when stridor is present at rest. Similarly, while reassurance is vital for both the child and the parents, it should not replace the need for urgent care in this scenario.