Use of continuous positive airway pressure during stabilisation and retrieval of infants with suspected bronchiolitis

Abstract

Aim: Infants with viral bronchiolitis are often hospitalised with a proportion requiring respiratory support. The aim of this review was to examine the use of nasal prong continuous positive airway pressure (CPAP) as a management strategy for infants with a diagnosis of bronchiolitis, who required stabilisation and transport to a tertiary centre. Method: A retrospective audit of infants with bronchiolitis requiring CPAP during transport between January 2003 and June 2007. Results: Nasal CPAP was initiated in 54 infants with 51 of these (34 ex-preterm, 17 term) subsequently continuing on CPAP during retrieval. Mean CPAP pressure was 7 cmH2O. Oxygenation improved between stabilisation and the ..