Feasibility and practical considerations for heating and humidifying gases during newborn stabilisation: An in vitro model

Abstract

Background: Gases for respiratory support at birth are typically 'cold and dry', which may increase the risk of hypothermia and lung injury. Objectives: To determine the feasibility of using heated humidification from birth. Method: A humidifier targeting 37°C, a manual-fill chamber and a Neopuff Infant T-piece resuscitator and circuit were attached to a face mask and a manikin. Recordings using 20 ml H2O for humidification and a flow of 10 l/min were undertaken. Temperature and relative humidity (RH) were recorded. Additional recordings were made, each with one alteration to baseline (50 ml H2O for humidification, auto-fill chamber, a flow of 8 l/min, addition of circuit extension piece, wa..