Naturopathic Management of Acute Pediatric Respiratory Infections: A Modified Delphi Study

Area of Science:

• Integrative Medicine
• Pediatric Health
• Global Health Threats

Background:

• Antimicrobial resistance is a major global health concern identified by the UN and WHO.
• The CDC highlights pediatric respiratory infections as critical for antibiotic stewardship.
• Naturopathic medicine offers potential alternatives to antibiotic use in children.

Purpose of the Study:

• To identify strategies used by experienced naturopathic practitioners for treating pediatric acute respiratory infections.
• To explore how naturopathic approaches can reduce antibiotic prescriptions.
• To understand the role of naturopathic doctors in antibiotic stewardship.

Main Methods:

• Modified Delphi study involving 14 experienced naturopathic practitioners from North America and Australia.
• Four iterative surveys assessed consensus on knowledge, assessment, management, monitoring, and education.
• Consensus defined by 70% agreement; items below 40% were discarded or modified.

Main Results:

• Strong agreement on lifestyle strategies (rest, diet) for pediatric respiratory infections.
• High support for Vitamin C, Vitamin D, echinacea, and elderberry use.
• Naturopathic practitioners, even prescribers, seldom found antibiotics necessary.

Conclusions:

• Naturopathic doctors play a key role in pediatric health and antibiotic stewardship.
• Findings offer guidance for less experienced naturopathic practitioners.
• Identifies research priorities for naturopathic interventions to reduce antibiotic overuse.