BREATHING CIRCUIT
Most respiratory diseases of the neonate occur as a result of the immaturity of the
premature neonate’s lungs. Despite stimulation, the normal process involved in the first
breath does not occur. The respiratory system is underdeveloped and adequate gas
exchange cannot take place. With this, there is need for respiratory support.
CONTINUOUS POSITIVE AIRWAY PRESSURE (CPAP) is a modality of respiratory
support in which increased pulmonary pressure is provided artificially during the
expiratory phase of respiration.
CPAP results in increased Functional Residual Capacity (FRC) for better gas exchange
and provides the lungs a safe and effective method of respiratory support to
spontaneously, but inadequately breathing neonates.
CPAP is used to treat babies with respiratory distress syndrome (RDS), Birth Asphyxia
(BA), Meconium aspiration syndrome (MAS), Hyaline Membrane Disease (HMD). etc...