Pulmonary function in the sick newborn infant

Abstract

Measurement of pulmonary function in the sick infant provides important clinical information and is an important tool for scientific investigation. Herein we review the techniques and limitations of pulmonary function measurements in small, sick newborn infants. Reference values for some of these measurements are provided. Many techniques entail some risk and it is vital that the baby's care not be compromised. We perform studies at the bedside with at least two investigators and observe and monitor the baby continuously. We occasionally use chloral hydrate sedation in irritable babies who could not otherwise be studied. However, the value of natural sedation should not be overlooked. As Nicholas Nelson wrote in 1966: 'These 'untrained' subjects have proved to be immensely cooperative in the careful hands of patient investigators cognizant of the anesthetic powers of a full stomach.'