Assisted ventilation of the neonate

Abstract

The operation of an intensive care unit for infants with respiratory distress demands the availability and commitment of many well-trained workers. Thorough knowledge of various systems for assisted ventilation and motivation to use them properly are mandatory. To approach the care of a critically ill infant with less than these qualifications reflects poor professional and ethical standards. The physical requirements for such a unit are strict. The choice of a method of ventilation, careful monitoring of blood gases, heart rhythm, and respiratory rate, humidification, nutrition, suctioning, alertness to complications, and weaning from the respirator are critical.