Minimal acceptable CPAP levels for tracheal extubation in newborn infants

ABSTRACT

The study showed that PaO2 [arterial oxygen tension] at 2 to 3 cm water [H2O] was nearly the same as observed following extubation, but was significantly lower at ZEEP; there was no significant change in PaCO2 [partial CO2 tension] or arterial pH when CPAP was discontinued or following extubation, hence tracheal extubation of newborn infants at the end of weaning of mechanical ventilation should be done at 2-3 cm H2O and not at ZEEP to prevent the reoccurrence of hypoxemia after extubation, this minimizing oxygen needs after extubation and preventing the hazards of high oxygen concentration