A Comparison of Moderate to Late Preterm Neonates Receiving Nasal Continuous Positive Airway Pressure in Australian Tertiary and Nontertiary Centers

Abstract

PurposeTransfer of neonates ≥32 weeks' gestation with acute respiratory distress to tertiary (T) centers can be reduced by treatment with nasal continuous positive airway pressure (nCPAP) in nontertiary (NT) centers. This can lead to considerable financial and emotional benefits. The aim of this project was to compare management of nCPAP in T and NT centers.DesignFive-year retrospective, observational cohort study (2010–2014).SampleAll NT eligible neonates from four sites (n = 484) were compared with a similar randomized cohort of inborn neonates at two T centers (n = 601) in Victoria, Australia.Main outcome variableAny difference in management or short-term outcome.ResultsModerately preterm and term neonates born in NT centers had lower Apgar scores at five minutes of age and received more conservative management delivered by different equipment. Despite a higher incidence of air leaks in NT centers, the short-term outcomes were otherwise similar between centers. T centers were more likely to administer nCPAP to term babies for <24 hours.