Exhaled carbon dioxide can be used to guide respiratory support in the delivery room

Abstract

Respiratory support in the delivery room remains challenging. Assessing chest rise is imprecise, and mask leak and airway obstruction are common problems. We describe recordings of respiratory signals during delivery room resuscitations and discuss guidance on positive-pressure ventilation using respiratory parameters and exhaled carbon dioxide (ECO2 ) during neonatal resuscitations.

Conclusion: Observing tidal volume and ECO2 waveforms adds objectivity to clinical assessments. ECO2 could help assess lung aeration and improve lung recruitment immediately after birth.

Keywords: Delivery room; Neonatal resuscitation; Newborn; Positive-pressure respiration; Respiratory function tests.