Continuous positive airway pressure via a single nasal catheter in preterm infants

We present the results of giving continuous positive airway pressure (CPAP) via a single nasal catheter to 20 preterm infants. A beneficial effect in terms of reduced work of breathing (P less than or equal to 0.01) and improved pattern of respiration (P less than or equal to 0.05) are demonstrated. CPAP via a single nasal catheter does not seem to mediate effects inside the thorax unlike CPAP delivered by a tight fitting face mask. Gross variations in CPAP level may result from altering the infant's position.