Episodes of hypo- and hypercapnia in a cohort of mechanically ventilated VLBW infants: the role of adequate staffing

Wien Med Wochenschr. 2017 Sep;167(11-12):256-258. doi: 10.1007/s10354-016-0506-6. Epub 2016 Aug 30.

Abstract

In preterm neonates, the use of invasive ventilation may be mandatory because of respiratory distress syndrome (RDS). In this short communication, we demonstrate that invasive ventilation in this susceptible cohort may be associated with episodes of both hypo- and hypercapnia, and that inadequate ventilatory support is associated with the occurrence rate of bronchopulmonary dysplasia (BPD; p < 0.05). Also, inadequate mechanical ventilation is aggravated by a shortage of medical staff.

Keywords: Hypercapnia; Hypocapnia; Mechanical ventilation; Very-low birth weight infants.

MeSH terms

  • Bronchopulmonary Dysplasia / etiology*
  • Bronchopulmonary Dysplasia / prevention & control
  • Cohort Studies
  • Correlation of Data
  • Germany
  • Humans
  • Hypercapnia / etiology*
  • Hypercapnia / prevention & control
  • Hypocapnia / etiology*
  • Hypocapnia / prevention & control
  • Infant, Newborn
  • Infant, Very Low Birth Weight
  • Intensive Care Units, Neonatal*
  • Medical Staff, Hospital / supply & distribution*
  • Positive-Pressure Respiration* / adverse effects
  • Prospective Studies
  • Respiratory Distress Syndrome, Newborn / therapy*
  • Risk Factors

Supplementary concepts

  • Respiratory Distress Syndrome In Premature Infants