Which statement best describes CPAP use in neonates with mild respiratory distress?

• A. CPAP is used only after intubation
• B. CPAP provides continuous positive airway pressure while allowing spontaneous breathing
• C. CPAP delivers a fixed tidal volume breaths
• D. CPAP requires mandatory breaths similar to AC

Answer: (A)

In mild neonatal respiratory distress, CPAP’s purpose is to keep the airways open and improve oxygenation by providing a continuous positive pressure, while the infant continues to breathe on their own. This noninvasive support reduces work of breathing and helps prevent atelectasis without forcing breaths.

This approach does not deliver fixed tidal volumes or mandate breaths. The tidal volume that a baby achieves under CPAP depends on their own effort and lung compliance, not on a set volume like in certain ventilator modes. CPAP also does not require mandatory breaths; it supports spontaneous breathing rather than delivering controlled or assisted breaths like in modes that impose each breath. Additionally, CPAP is often used before resorting to intubation, especially when distress is mild and the infant can maintain spontaneous breathing.