An innovative air-oxygen blender for continuous positive airway pressure support in resource-poor locations: A feasibility study

Abstract

Objectives: The objectives of this study are (i) to evaluate the feasibility of using an inexpensive air pump to maintain reliable oxygen concentration in a continuous positive airway pressure (CPAP) system and (ii) to evaluate whether an inexpensive air pump can maintain infant 02 sats >90%. Methods: This prospective study, which included 19 babies in pilot phase and 90 during extension phase, was conducted at a neonatal intensive care unit in a resource-poor academic medical center in India. The intervention involved introduction of an air pump in the CPAP delivery system. Outcome measures were oxygen concentration in the air-oxygen blend and oxygen saturation of the study babies. Results: Oxygen concentration at the outlets ranged between 56 and 70% and in the blend between 42 and 51%. Oxygen saturation ranged between 90 and 97%. Conclusion: A simple and inexpensive air pump can work as a safe and effective oxygen blender.