The accuracy of delivery of target pressures using self-inflating bag manometers in a benchtop study

Abstract

Aim We tested whether operators using manometers attached to self-inflating bags could accurately deliver set targeted peak inspiratory pressures (PIPs) compared to the Neopuff™ T-piece resuscitator (TPR). Methods Participants provided positive pressure ventilation to a leak-free neonatal test lung at a rate of 60 inflations/min and a flow of 8 L/min. Participants used three manometers attached to self-inflating bags and a Neopuff™ TPR to target PIPs of 20, 30 and 40 cmH2O on each device. Mean PIPs delivered with each manometer were compared to the 'gold standard' Neopuff™ TPR. Results In total, 13 991 inflations delivered by 20 participants were analysed. At all target PIPs, the mean PIP de..