Paediatric Artificial Ventilation for the Non-Specialist

Abstract

Paediatric artificial ventilation includes ventilation of neonates, infants and children. Although the principles are the same as in adult ventilation there are important differences between adult and paediatric anatomy and physiology. Paediatric ventilation in hospital and during transport is the work of specialists in the field. However, non-specialists should be familiar with the subject and particularly in how to provide artificial ventilation during emergencies, working in remote locations and during disasters. Manual techniques including rescue ventilation and the use of the paediatric bag valve mask are important. There are a number of portable pneumatic ventilators which have been used in emergency and transport ventilation for a number of years and these are now supplemented by a range of more complex electronic ventilators which are capable of providing more adapted ventilation. However, pressure controlled ventilation with PEEP and the used of CPAP remain the mainstays of paediatric ventilation. This chapter provides a basic overview of the subject.