Efficacy of Bubble CPAP in Managing Respiratory Distress in Neonatal Intensive Care Unit

Abstract

Objective: To determine the efficacy of BCPAP (bubble continuous positive airway pressure) in management of neonates presenting with respiratory distress.
Material and Method: This is a Descriptive Case series conducted in Neonatal Intensive Care Unit, Punjab Rangers Teaching Hospital, Lahore, over 6 months from 3rd August, 2022 to 3rd February, 2023. 60 neonates of both gender, received within 2 hours of delivery and symptoms of respiratory distress syndrome (as per operational definition). BCPAP (Bubble continuous positive airway pressure) was initiated at 5cm H2O to maintain pulse oximeter saturations above 90% in babies weighing over 1.5kg. Neonates were monitored for 48 hours, and Silverman Anderson Retraction Scores were assessed before and after this period. Efficacy, defined as a 3-point or greater reduction in the Silverman Anderson Retraction Score after 48 hours, was evaluated.
Results: 35 % (n=21) were male whereas 65% (n=39) were females. This study found that percentage of efficacy was 88.3% of BCPAP in management of neonates presenting with respiratory distress.
Conclusion: BCPAP has proven to be the choice of primary respiratory support in neonates with Respiratory Distress Syndrome due to its efficacy and cost-effectiveness in a limited resource setting.