Accuracy of a Noncontact Breathing Frequency Monitoring Technology in the Neonatal ICU

Breathing frequency is a sensitive indicator of a neonate patient's condition and a crucial parameter in the neonatal ICU (NICU). However, conventional methods require sensors to be adhered to the newborn's sensitive skin. This study assesses a noncontact respiratory monitor, using linear frequency modulation continuous wave radar, to determine the monitor's accuracy when used in the NICU setting.

An observational study was conducted on the noncontact respiration module produced by Mindray, connected to a BeneVisionN12 patient monitor. This unit collected data on breathing frequency; at the same time, the patient breathing frequency was also being measured using a CO₂ monitor (accepted standard). Statistical analyses were performed to assess the agreement between the 2 measurements and to assess whether this noncontact monitor is sufficiently accurate for clinical use.

20 neonatal patients at 2 NICUs were enrolled in the study. The mean bias between the radar-derived and CO₂-derived breathing frequency was -0.29 breaths/min (95% CI: -0.53 to -0.04); root-mean-square error was 2.60 breaths/min; concordance correlation coefficient was 0.98; and Pearson correlation coefficient was 0.98. Subgroup analyses grouped by body weight show that the technology has particularly high accuracy and clinical utility for neonates with low body weight (<1.5 kg).

The noncontact respiration monitoring technology and module developed by Mindray showed a high degree of agreement with the CO₂ reference standard and met the standard of accuracy required for clinical use.