Bubble Continuous Positive Airway Pressure (CPAP) for Respiratory Distress in Premature Neonates

An Evidence-Based Nursing Practice Report

Photo by Hush Naidoo on Unsplash

Abstract

Background: This evidence-based report explores the use of continuous positive airway pressure, a method of non-invasive ventilation, for the treatment of respiratory distress, in premature infants. It further discusses different methods of non-invasive ventilation.

Aims: This report aims to identify best practice for the use of continuous positive airway pressure for respiratory distress in premature infants and compare it to other forms of non-invasive ventilation.

Methods: This report compares local policies and guidelines with a Joanna Briggs Institute evidence summary and current literature. Current literature was gathered by searching “continuous positive airway pressure” and “respiratory distress” in various databases.

Results: Continuous positive airway pressure was more effective in treatment among premature infants. However, nasal biphasic positive airway pressure was superior to continuous positive airway pressure for respiratory distress syndrome among term and very low birth-weight infants. The best practice for applying continuous positive airway pressure is via nasal prongs or mask at…