Reminder
Volumetric capnography has traditionally been used to monitor the respiratory and circulatory function of adult patients in various medical settings. However, recent studies have shown that this technology can also play an important role in improving the care of preterm infants.
The capnography is a solution for the preterm infants ?
Preterm infants are vulnerable to various health problems, including respiratory distress syndrome (RDS), which can cause serious breathing difficulties. To manage RDS, neonatal intensive care units (NICUs) typically use a combination of mechanical ventilation and supplemental oxygen. However, traditional methods of monitoring the efficacy of these interventions, such as pulse oximetry, can be unreliable.
Volumetric capnography, on the other hand, provides a more accurate and continuous measurement of CO2 levels in the exhaled breath, which can provide a more reliable indicator of respiratory and circulatory function. By monitoring CO2 levels in real-time, NICUs can quickly identify and respond to changes in a preterm infant’s breathing and make adjustments to their care as needed.
In a recent study, the use of volumetric capnography in NICUs was shown to significantly improve the outcome for preterm infants with RDS. Infants who were monitored using capnography had a lower incidence of chronic lung disease and a higher rate of survival compared to those monitored using traditional methods.
Conclusion on the capnography
In conclusion, volumetric capnography offers an innovative solution for improving the care of preterm infants with RDS. By providing a more accurate and continuous measurement of CO2 levels, NICUs can more effectively manage the respiratory and circulatory function of these vulnerable patients and improve their outcomes.