Objective: To evaluate the efficacy of continuous positive airway pressure (CPAP) administered by face mask in patients with acute respiratory failure with indication of mechanical ventilation.
Materials and method: Eleven patients (mean age 41.3 years) in acute respiratory failure were admitted in the Respiratory Unit--Hospital São Paulo--Escola Paulista de Medicina. At the admission pH, PaO2, PaCO2, respiratory rate (f), arterial pressure and heart rate were measured. The measurements were repeated with administration of oxygen with a high flow face mask at ambient airway pressure and then with 5 cm H2O of CPAP by face mask.
Results: The use of CPAP by face mask significantly improved the arterial blood oxygenation and decreased the respiratory rate (p < 0.05).
Conclusion: These data allow the conclusion that CPAP administered by face mask improves gas exchange and decreases respiratory rate in patients with acute respiratory failure and may reduce the need for invasive mechanical ventilation.