Feasibility study of a low-cost bubble CPAP system in a neonatal medium care unit in Belgium

Abstract

Objective
We aimed to evaluate the implementation and use of a high quality innovative bubble continuous positive airway pressure (bCPAP) System into a neonatal unit in Belgium.      
Methods
A prospective observational study of neonates who met criteria for non-invasive respiratory support was conducted. All medical and nursing staff completed an on-line Thinkific course, followed by a live demonstration and practice of device application. Clinical indicator and device settings were recorded for every neonate. Staff surveys were administered after the training, after treatment of a neonate with a Vayu bCPAP System, and eight months after device introduction.
Results
Seven neonates were treated with Vayu bCPAP Systems. Their mean birth weight was 3170g with a median duration of treatment with bCPAP of 19 hours (IQR 2h–6d). Four term neonates had transient tachypnea of the newborn (TTN, n=4). One preterm and one term baby suffered from respiratory distress syndrome (RDS, n=2) and one baby had meconium aspiration syndrome (MAS, n=1). Six of the seven neonates improved their respiratory status and were weaned off the bCPAP System. One neonate needed more extensive ventilatory support and was transferred to a higher level neonatal intensive care unit (NICU). Staff surveys demonstrated that the devices were easy to use and satisfaction rates were high.
Conclusion
It was feasible to use Vayu bCPAP Systems to provide neonates with non-invasive respiratory support in our neonatal unit. Since implementation of this device there is less hesitancy among the medical staff to start babies on CPAP.