Keywords

bubble continuous positive airway pressure (CPAP), chronic lung disease, continuous positive airway pressure, continuous positive airway pressure respiratory distress syndrome, infant, neonate, newborn, nursing care, respiratory therapy, underwater continuous positive airway pressure

Authors

1. Bonner, Krista M. RNC, MSN, NNP

ABSTRACT

There are increasing numbers of low birth-weight and premature infants surviving with conditions such as chronic lung disease or bronchopulmonary dysplasia due to complications of assisted mechanical ventilation and other factors. Continuous positive airway pressure (CPAP) has been used as an alternative respiratory treatment to prevent and manage lung disease in preterm infants since the 1970s. Evidence has demonstrated the usefulness of CPAP in the delivery room, as a rescue therapy, as an extubation tool, and a method for managing apnea of prematurity. Bubble CPAP is a unique, simple, inexpensive way of providing continuous positive pressure to infants. Some background and training in the setup, care, and evaluation of the infant on bubble CPAP is essential for positive outcomes.