A Retrospective Study of Short-term versus Long-term Use of High Flow Nasal Cannula after Extubation in the Intensive Care Unit

BACKGROUND

The use of a high flow nasal cannula (HFNC) was examined for different clinical indications in the critically ill.

OBJECTIVES

To describe a single center experience with HFNC in post-extubation critical care patients by using clinical indices.

METHODS

In this single center study, the authors retrospectively evaluated the outcome of patients who were connected to the HFNC after their extubation in the intensive care unit (ICU). At 48 hours after the extubation, the patients were divided into three groups: the group weaned from HFNC, the ongoing HFNC group, and the already intubated group.

RESULTS

Of the 80 patients who were included, 42 patients were without HFNC support at 48 hours after extubation, 22 and 16 patients were with ongoing HFNC support and already intubated by this time frame, respectively. The mean ROX index (the ratio of SpO2 divided by fraction of inspired oxygen to respiratory rate) at 6 hours of the weaned group was 12.3 versus 9.3 in the ongoing HFNC group, and 8.5 in the reintubated group (P = 0.02). The groups were significantly different by the ICU length of stay, tracheostomy rate, and mortality.

CONCLUSIONS

Among patients treated with HFNC post-extubation of those who had a higher ROX index were less likely to undergo reintubation.

Correlations between oxygen and positive pressure exposure in the neonatal intensive care unit and wheezing in preterm infants without bronchopulmonary dysplasia

BACKGROUND

Oxygen exposure has been associated with increased wheezing and respiratory morbidity after discharge in extremely preterm infants and those with bronchopulmonary dysplasia. More mature preterm infants with less severe disease are also at risk for pulmonary complications, including rehospitalization for respiratory illnesses and wheezing disorders. Our aim was to evaluate associations between respiratory support and morbidity in preterm infants without bronchopulmonary dysplasia.

METHODS

A secondary analysis was performed on 300 infants born at 28-34 weeks gestation without bronchopulmonary dysplasia. Exposure included oxygen or positive pressure, (continuous positive airway pressure or mechanical ventilation). The primary outcome was recurrent wheezing. Secondary outcomes were respiratory medications, emergency room visits, and hospitalizations.

RESULTS

50% of infants who received oxygen experienced recurrent wheezing compared to 42.4% of infants who did not (OR 1.15 CI 0.72-1.85 adjusted OR 1.15 CI 0.67-1.98). 51.1% of infants who received positive pressure experienced recurrent wheezing compared to 38.1% who did not (OR 1.57 CI 0.97-2.53 adjusted OR 1.58 CI 0.90-2.77). There were no significant associations between oxygen and positive pressure exposure and any primary or secondary outcomes in the adjusted analyses.

CONCLUSIONS

After adjustment for known risk factors the analyses showed no significant associations between oxygen and positive pressure with respiratory morbidity in this population. Further study of infants with mild disease is needed.

[Very Low Birth Weight Infants in a Portuguese Intensive Care Unit and the Vermont Oxford Network: 15 Years of Registry Data]

INTRODUCTION

Our neonatal service is part of a differentiated perinatal hospital and has contributed to the Vermont Oxford Network for more than 15 years. This data base includes data on the morbidity and mortality of newborns born in the member hospitals with birth weight between 401 and 1500 g and/ or from 22 to 29 weeks and six days of gestation, or those admitted to these hospitals with up to 28 days of age. It thus allows the analysis of clinical practice and its comparison with similar units. The goal of the present paper is to disclose some of our data from the past 15 years and to compare it with the Vermont Oxford Network data trying to identify areas of possible improvement and permitting other neonatal units to compare their data with our in a benchmarking process.

MATERIAL AND METHODS

Observational, retrospective study. It included newborns with birth weight ≤ 1500 g (very low birth weight newborns) born and treated at our hospital from 2001 to 2015. Descriptive data analysis, chi-square test and ANOVA, significance when p < 0.05.

RESULTS

A total of 869 very low birth weight newborns were studied, median weight 1100 g and gestational age 29 weeks. Twinning was found in 37.6%. In the delivery room, 23% did not require any resuscitation, 52.2% of the newborns required invasive intubation, 78.3% had surfactant, and, since 2011, 29.7% have started noninvasive ventilation. Of the total very low birth weight newborns, 12.9% had oxygen therapy at 36 weeks of corrected age, 23% patent ductus arteriosus and late sepsis in 17.1%. There was higher neurological morbidity compared to the Vermont Oxford Network except in the case of retinopathy of prematurity. Overall mortality was 14% (122 newborns). The time of hospitalization was on average 52.7 ± 34.4 days. The 629 newborns that were discharged home had equivalent length of stay and head circumference measure but a lower weight than those in the Vermont Oxford Network, and 14.3% went home with exclusive breastfeeding.

DISCUSSION

This work allowed us to study our very low birth weight newborns data and compare it with one of the largest neonatal world networks. Our population is similar from the point of view of gestational age, somatometric data, pregnancy surveillance rates and cesarean section with the most noticeable difference being the percentage of low birthweight for gestational age babies, twin pregnancies and antenatal corticosteroid treatment, superior in our center. Cardio-pulmonary and gastrointestinal disorders were overlapping. It is urgent to improve our rate of sepsis, neurologic sequelae, post-partum hypothermia control and neuroprotection with magnesium sulphate. The mortality rate and the length of stay at discharge was similar.

CONCLUSION

This study allowed us to compare our population of very low birth weight newborns with those registered in the network. We have verified that we have been accompanying the evolution of Neonatology over the past years and we have identified areas for improvement.

Oral vitamin A supplementation in very low birth weight neonates: a randomized controlled trial

This randomized double-blind placebo-controlled trial evaluated the effects of early postnatal oral vitamin A supplementation (VAS) in 196 inborn very-low birth weight (VLBW) infants requiring respiratory support at 24 h of age. Eligible infants were randomized to receive aqueous syrup of vitamin A (10,000 IU of retinol/dose; n = 98) or placebo (n = 98) on alternate days for 28 days. Primary outcome variable was composite incidence of all-cause mortality and/or oxygen requirement for 28 days. Secondary outcome variables were safety/tolerability of VAS, serum retinol concentration at recruitment and day 28, duration of oxygen requirement and respiratory support and incidences of complications. On intention-to-treat analysis, composite incidence of all-cause mortality and oxygen requirement for 28 days was significantly lower in vitamin A group (relative risk (95% confidence interval), 0.440 (0.229-0.844); p < 0.05, number needed to benefit, 7). Requirement and duration of oxygen supplementation and non-invasive respiratory support, incidences of late-onset sepsis, patent ductus arteriosus, and duration of hospital stay were also significantly lower in vitamin A group. Serum retinol concentration improved significantly after VAS. No major adverse effect was observed.Conclusions: Early postnatal oral VAS was associated with better composite outcome of all-cause mortality and oxygen requirement without any major adverse effects.Clinical Trial Registration: Clinical Trials Registry of India (CTRI/2017/03/008131). What is Known: • Postnatal intramuscular vitamin A supplementation improves the survival, respiratory outcome and other morbidities in very low birth weight neonates without major adverse effects. • Limited studies on oral vitamin A supplementation did not document substantial benefits. What is New: • Early postnatal alternate-day oral vitamin A supplementation at the dose of 10,000 IU/dose for 28 days improves the composite outcome of death and oxygen requirement in very low birth weight neonates with respiratory distress • No major adverse effects were documented.

Home Oxygen Use for Preterm Infants with Bronchopulmonary Dysplasia in California

OBJECTIVES

To identify predictors of home oxygen use in preterm infants with bronchopulmonary dysplasia (BPD) in a statewide cohort, identify hospital variation in home oxygen use, and determine the relationship between home oxygen use and neonatal intensive care unit discharge timing.

STUDY DESIGN

This was a secondary analysis of California Perinatal Quality Care Collaborative data. Infants were born <32 weeks of gestation, diagnosed with BPD based on respiratory support at 36 weeks postmenstrual age (PMA), and discharged home. Risk factors for home oxygen use were identified using a logistic mixed model with center as random effect. Estimates were used to calculate each center's observed to expected ratio of home oxygen use, and a Spearman coefficient between center median PMA at discharge and observed and expected proportions of home oxygen use.

RESULTS

Of 7846, 3672 infants (47%) with BPD were discharged with home oxygen. Higher odds of home oxygen use were seen with antenatal steroids, maternal hypertension, earlier gestational age, male sex, ductus arteriosus ligation, more ventilator days, nitric oxide, discharge from regional hospitals, and PMA at discharge (receiver operating characteristic area under the curve 0.85). Of 92 hospitals, home oxygen use ranged from 7% to 95%; 42% of observed home oxygen use was significantly higher or lower than expected given patient characteristics. The 67 community hospitals with higher observed rates of home oxygen had earlier median PMA at discharge (correlation -0.27, P = .024).

CONCLUSIONS

Clinical and hospital factors predict home oxygen use. Home oxygen use varies across California, with community centers using more home oxygen having a shorter length of stay.

Oxygen Therapy in Ireland: A Nationwide Review of Delivery, Monitoring and Cost Implications

Aims Our aim was to establish which hospitals in Ireland are running oxygen clinics and to compare oxygen prescription in hospitals to a guideline standard. Long term oxygen therapy is known to be of benefit to a specific cohort of patients but is not without risk. Methods We sent an online questionnaire and followed up by phone to representatives in Irish hospitals in which domiciliary oxygen is prescribed. We obtained responses from 32 hospitals. Results Twelve hospitals (38%) had a dedicated oxygen assessment clinic while twenty (62%) did not. Centres without oxygen clinics generally prescribed oxygen following an in-patient stay 18/23 centres (78%) and were unable to provide follow up for patients on oxygen in 6/23 centres (26%). Centres with oxygen clinics generally met criteria for initial assessment and oxygen prescription, however titration of oxygen and general follow up did not meet guideline recommendations. Conclusion Due to a lack of dedicated oxygen assessment and review services, many Irish patients are not optimally treated with domiciliary oxygen.

Acute Oxygen Therapy on Hospital Wards in Low Middle-Income Country: Experience from a Referral Centre in Ilorin, Nigeria

BACKGROUND

Oxygen is like any other medication that can cause severe consequences if administered inappropriately.

OBJECTIVE

To audit the pattern of acute oxygen therapy on regular hospital wards of a referral centre in Ilorin, Nigeria.

METHODS

We reviewed 150 patients that received or had a prescription for acute oxygen therapy in three months and extracted relevant information using a proforma.

RESULTS

About one-third of the patients (30%) were >65 years of age and the male to female ratio was 1:1. The commonest indication and medical condition for acute oxygen administration were hypoxemia (70.7%) and pneumonia (26.0%), respectively. Pneumonia accounted for most (41.2 %) of the oxygen therapy in childhood. The majority of patients (88.0%) had written order for oxygen prescription, 40.7% had a prescription to target oxygen saturation and only 31.3% achieved their target saturation. Oxygen prescription was adequate (documentation of delivery device, flow rate of oxygen, and target oxygen saturations) in 40.7% of patients. The assessment, monitoring and titration of oxygen therapy were adequate in 92.7%, 65.3% and 28 % of patients respectively. Overall mortality was 27.3% in patients receiving acute oxygen supplementation. Eleven patients had unstable COPD, and 63.6 %, 54.5 % and 45.6 % of them had adequate oxygen prescription, monitoring and titration respectively. The challenges to oxygen use were faulty delivery devices, emptied oxygen cylinders, inability to routinely do arterial blood gas analysis and lack of hospital oxygen protocol.

CONCLUSION

The current practice of acute oxygen therapy is not satisfactory and interventions are advocated to improve the healthcare providers' administration of oxygen.

Immunonutrition for acute respiratory distress syndrome (ARDS) in adults

BACKGROUND

Acute respiratory distress syndrome (ARDS) is an overwhelming systemic inflammatory process associated with significant morbidity and mortality. Pharmacotherapies that moderate inflammation in ARDS are lacking. Several trials have evaluated the effects of pharmaconutrients, given as part of a feeding formula or as a nutritional supplement, on clinical outcomes in critical illness and ARDS.

OBJECTIVES

To systematically review and critically appraise available evidence on the effects of immunonutrition compared to standard non-immunonutrition formula feeding on mechanically ventilated adults (aged 18 years or older) with acute respiratory distress syndrome (ARDS).

SEARCH METHODS

We searched MEDLINE, Embase, CENTRAL, conference proceedings, and trial registries for appropriate studies up to 25 April 2018. We checked the references from published studies and reviews on this topic for potentially eligible studies.

SELECTION CRITERIA

We included all randomized controlled trials (RCTs) and quasi-randomized controlled trials comparing immunonutrition versus a control or placebo nutritional formula in adults (aged 18 years or older) with ARDS, as defined by the Berlin definition of ARDS or, for older studies, by the American-European Consensus Criteria for both ARDS and acute lung injury.

DATA COLLECTION AND ANALYSIS

Two review authors independently assessed the quality of studies and extracted data from the included trials. We sought additional information from study authors. We performed statistical analysis according to Cochrane methodological standards. Our primary outcome was all-cause mortality. Secondary outcomes included intensive care unit (ICU) length of stay, ventilator days, indices of oxygenation, cardiac adverse events, gastrointestinal adverse events, and total number of adverse events. We used GRADE to assess the quality of evidence for each outcome.

MAIN RESULTS

We identified 10 randomized controlled trials with 1015 participants. All studies compared an enteral formula or additional supplemental omega-3 fatty acids (i.e. eicosapentaenoic acid (EPA), docosahexaenoic acid (DHA)), gamma-linolenic acid (GLA), and antioxidants. We assessed some of the included studies as having high risk of bias due to methodological shortcomings. Studies were heterogenous in nature and varied in several ways, including type and duration of interventions given, calorific targets, and reported outcomes. All studies reported mortality. For the primary outcome, study authors reported no differences in all-cause mortality (longest period reported) with the use of an immunonutrition enteral formula or additional supplements of omega-3 fatty acids and antioxidants (risk ratio (RR) 0.79, 95% confidence interval (CI) 0.59 to 1.07; participants = 1015; studies = 10; low-quality evidence).For secondary outcomes, we are uncertain whether immunonutrition with omega-3 fatty acids and antioxidants reduces ICU length of stay (mean difference (MD) -3.09 days. 95% CI -5.19 to -0.99; participants = 639; studies = 8; very low-quality evidence) and ventilator days (MD -2.24 days, 95% CI -3.77 to -0.71; participants = 581; studies = 7; very low-quality evidence). We are also uncertain whether omega-3 fatty acids and antioxidants improve oxygenation, defined as ratio of partial pressure of arterial oxygen (PaO₂) to fraction of inspired oxygen (FiO₂), at day 4 (MD 39 mmHg, 95% CI 10.75 to 67.02; participants = 676; studies = 8), or whether they increase adverse events such as cardiac events (RR 0.87, 95% CI 0.09 to 8.46; participants = 339; studies = 3; very low-quality evidence), gastrointestinal events (RR 1.11, 95% CI 0.71 to 1.75; participants = 427; studies = 4; very low-quality evidence), or total adverse events (RR 0.91, 95% CI 0.67 to 1.23; participants = 517; studies = 5; very low-quality evidence).

AUTHORS' CONCLUSIONS

This meta-analysis of 10 studies of varying quality examined effects of omega-3 fatty acids and/or antioxidants in adults with ARDS. This intervention may produce little or no difference in all-cause mortality between groups. We are uncertain whether immunonutrition with omega-3 fatty acids and antioxidants improves the duration of ventilator days and ICU length of stay or oxygenation at day 4 due to the very low quality of evidence. Adverse events associated with immunonutrition are also uncertain, as confidence intervals include the potential for increased cardiac, gastrointestinal, and total adverse events.

The nasal oxygen practice in intensive care units in China: A multi-centered survey

Background

Nurses frequently administer nasal oxygen therapy for patients in intensive care units (ICUs). However, little is known about the current status, nurses’ management and perception on the nasal oxygen therapy in China. Therefore, we aimed to investigate the nasal oxygen practice of ICUs in China to provide insights into future direction.

Methods

A cross-sectional survey on 10 hospitals was conducted. A self-designed questionnaire was administered to ICU nurses. Descriptive statistics, univariate, and multiple stepwise regression analyses were performed to analyze the respondents’ questionnaires.

Results

A total of 580 respondents with a response rate of 96.67% were included in this study. The average correct answer rate was 58.28%. The current status of nasal oxygen administration in ICUs in Chinese hospitals lagged behind the recommendations of related guidelines. Nurses in China were eager to learn about the updated knowledge on oxygen therapy. The gender, age, clinical experience, degree, job title, and classification of working hospitals were not related to the oxygen therapy-related knowledge scores (all P>0.05).

Conclusion

Many deficiencies are observed regarding the nasal oxygen practice in ICUs of Chinese hospitals. Increased efforts by authorities and medical staff are required to narrow the gap between the current status of oxygen practice and the recommendations from related guidelines.

Paracetamol (acetaminophen) for patent ductus arteriosus in preterm or low birth weight infants

BACKGROUND

In preterm newborns, the ductus arteriosus frequently fails to close and the infants require medical or surgical closure of the patent ductus arteriosus (PDA). A PDA can be treated surgically; or medically with one of two prostaglandin inhibitors, indomethacin or ibuprofen. Case reports suggest that paracetamol may be an alternative for the closure of a PDA. An association between prenatal or postnatal exposure to paracetamol and later development of autism or autism spectrum disorder has been reported.

OBJECTIVES

To determine the effectiveness and safety of intravenous or oral paracetamol compared with placebo or no intervention, intravenous indomethacin, intravenous or oral ibuprofen, or with other cyclo-oxygenase inhibitors for treatment of an echocardiographically diagnosed PDA in preterm or low birth weight infants.

SEARCH METHODS

We used the standard search strategy of Cochrane Neonatal to search the Cochrane Central Register of Controlled Trials (CENTRAL 2017, Issue 10), MEDLINE via PubMed (1966 to 6 November 2017), Embase (1980 to 6 November 2017), and CINAHL (1982 to 6 November 2017). We searched clinical trial databases, conference proceedings, and the reference lists of retrieved articles for randomised controlled trials (RCT) and quasi-randomised trials.

SELECTION CRITERIA

We included RCTs in which paracetamol was compared to no intervention, placebo or other agents used for closure of PDA irrespective of dose, duration and mode of administration in preterm (≤ 34 weeks' postmenstrual age) infants. We both reviewed the search results and made a final selection of potentially eligible articles by discussion. We included studies of both prophylactic and therapeutic use of paracetamol.

DATA COLLECTION AND ANALYSIS

We performed data collection and analyses in accordance with the methods of the Cochrane Neonatal Review Group. We used the GRADE approach to assess the quality of evidence for the following outcomes when data were available: failure of ductal closure after the first course of treatment; neurodevelopmental impairment; all-cause mortality during initial hospital stay (death); gastrointestinal bleed or stools positive for occult blood; and serum levels of creatinine after treatment (µmol/L).

MAIN RESULTS

We included eight studies that reported on 916 infants. One of these studies compared paracetamol to both ibuprofen and indomethacin. Five studies compared treatment of PDA with paracetamol versus ibuprofen and enrolled 559 infants. There was no significant difference between paracetamol and ibuprofen for failure of ductal closure after the first course of drug administration (typical risk ratio (RR) 0.95, 95% confidence interval (CI) 0.75 to 1.21; typical risk difference (RD) -0.02, 95% CI -0.09 to 0.09); I² = 0% for RR and RD; moderate quality of evidence. Four studies (n = 537) reported on gastrointestinal bleed which was lower in the paracetamol group versus the ibuprofen group (typical RR 0.28, 95% CI 0.12 to 0.69; typical RD -0.06, 95% CI -0.09 to -0.02); I² = 0% for RR and RD; number needed to treat for an additional beneficial outcome (NNTB) 17 (95% CI 11 to 50); moderate quality of evidence. The serum levels of creatinine were lower in the paracetamol group compared with the ibuprofen group in four studies (moderate quality of evidence), as were serum bilirubin levels following treatment in two studies (n = 290). Platelet counts and daily urine output were higher in the paracetamol group compared with the ibuprofen group. One study reported on long-term follow-up to 18 to 24 months of age following treatment with paracetamol versus ibuprofen. There were no significant differences in the neurological outcomes at 18 to 24 months (n = 61); (low quality of evidence).Two studies compared prophylactic administration of paracetamol for a PDA with placebo or no intervention in 80 infants. Paracetamol resulted in a lower rate of failure of ductal closure after 4 to 5 days of treatment compared to placebo or no intervention which was of borderline significance for typical RR 0.49 (95% CI 0.24 to 1.00; P = 0.05); but significant for typical RD -0.21 (95% CI -0.41 to -0.02); I² = 0 % for RR and RD; NNTB 5 (95% CI 2 to 50); (low quality of evidence).Two studies (n = 277) compared paracetamol with indomethacin. There was no significant difference in the failure to close a PDA (typical RR 0.96, 95% CI 0.55 to 1.65; I² = 11%; typical RD -0.01, 95% CI -0.09 to 0.08; I² = 17%) (low quality of evidence). Serum creatinine levels were significantly lower in the paracetamol group compared with the indomethacin group and platelet counts and daily urine output were significantly higher in the paracetamol group.

AUTHORS' CONCLUSIONS

Moderate-quality evidence according to GRADE suggests that paracetamol is as effective as ibuprofen; low-quality evidence suggests paracetamol to be more effective than placebo or no intervention; and low-quality evidence suggests paracetamol as effective as indomethacin in closing a PDA. There was no difference in neurodevelopmental outcome in children exposed to paracetamol compared to ibuprofen; however the quality of evidence is low and comes from only one study. In view of concerns raised regarding neurodevelopmental outcomes following prenatal and postnatal exposure to paracetamol, long-term follow-up to at least 18 to 24 months' postnatal age must be incorporated in any studies of paracetamol in the newborn population. At least 19 ongoing trials have been registered. Such trials are required before any recommendations for the possible routine use of paracetamol in the newborn population can be made.

Delivery Room Resuscitation and Short-Term Outcomes in Moderately Preterm Infants

OBJECTIVES

To describe the frequency and extent of delivery room resuscitation and evaluate the association of delivery room resuscitation with neonatal outcomes in moderately preterm (MPT) infants.

STUDY DESIGN

This was an observational cohort study of MPT infants delivered at 29^0/7 to 33^6/7 weeks' gestational age (GA) enrolled in the Neonatal Research Network MPT registry. Infants were categorized into 5 groups based on the highest level of delivery room intervention: routine care, oxygen and/or continuous positive airway pressure, bag and mask ventilation, endotracheal intubation, and cardiopulmonary resuscitation including chest compressions and/or epinephrine use. The association of antepartum and intrapartum risk factors and discharge outcomes with the intensity of resuscitation was evaluated.

RESULTS

Of 7014 included infants, 1684 (24.0%) received routine care and no additional resuscitation, 2279 (32.5%) received oxygen or continuous positive airway pressure, 1831 (26.1%) received bag and mask ventilation, 1034 (14.7%) underwent endotracheal intubation, and 186 (2.7%) received cardiopulmonary resuscitation. Among the antepartum and intrapartum factors, increasing GA, any exposure to antenatal steroids and prolonged rupture of membranes decreased the likelihood of receipt of all levels of resuscitation. Infants who were small for GA (SGA) had increased risk of delivery room resuscitation. Among the neonatal outcomes, respiratory support at 28 days, days to full oral feeds and length of stay were significantly associated with the intensity of delivery room resuscitation. Higher intensity of resuscitation was associated with increased risk of mortality.

CONCLUSIONS

The majority of MPT infants receive some level of delivery room resuscitation. Increased intensity of delivery room interventions was associated with prolonged respiratory and nutritional support, increased mortality, and a longer length of stay.

Claims-based risk model for first severe COPD exacerbation

OBJECTIVES

To develop and validate a predictive model for first severe chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) exacerbation using health insurance claims data and to validate the risk measure of controller medication to total COPD treatment (controller and rescue) ratio (CTR).

STUDY DESIGN

A predictive model was developed and validated in 2 managed care databases: Truven Health MarketScan database and Reliant Medical Group database. This secondary analysis assessed risk factors, including CTR, during the baseline period (Year 1) to predict risk of severe exacerbation in the at-risk period (Year 2).

METHODS

Patients with COPD who were 40 years or older and who had at least 1 COPD medication dispensed during the year following COPD diagnosis were included. Subjects with severe exacerbations in the baseline year were excluded. Risk factors in the baseline period were included as potential predictors in multivariate analysis. Performance was evaluated using C-statistics.

RESULTS

The analysis included 223,824 patients. The greatest risk factors for first severe exacerbation were advanced age, chronic oxygen therapy usage, COPD diagnosis type, dispensing of 4 or more canisters of rescue medication, and having 2 or more moderate exacerbations. A CTR of 0.3 or greater was associated with a 14% lower risk of severe exacerbation. The model performed well with C-statistics, ranging from 0.711 to 0.714.

CONCLUSIONS

This claims-based risk model can predict the likelihood of first severe COPD exacerbation. The CTR could also potentially be used to target populations at greatest risk for severe exacerbations. This could be relevant for providers and payers in approaches to prevent severe exacerbations and reduce costs.

Early (< 8 days) systemic postnatal corticosteroids for prevention of bronchopulmonary dysplasia in preterm infants

BACKGROUND

Bronchopulmonary dysplasia remains a major problem in neonatal intensive care units. Persistent inflammation in the lungs is the most likely underlying pathogenesis. Corticosteroids have been used to prevent or treat bronchopulmonary dysplasia because of their potent anti-inflammatory effects.

OBJECTIVES

To examine the relative benefits and adverse effects of systemic postnatal corticosteroids commenced within the first seven days of life for preterm infants at risk of developing bronchopulmonary dysplasia.

SEARCH METHODS

For the 2017 update, we used the standard search strategy of Cochrane Neonatal to search the Cochrane Central Register of Controlled Trials (CENTRAL; 2017, Issue 1); MEDLINE via PubMed (January 2013 to 21 February 2017); Embase (January 2013 to 21 February 2017); and the Cumulative Index to Nursing and Allied Health Literature (CINAHL) (January 2013 to 21 February 2017). We also searched clinical trials databases, conference proceedings, and reference lists of retrieved articles for randomised controlled trials (RCTs) and quasi-randomised trials.

SELECTION CRITERIA

For this review, we selected RCTs examining systemic postnatal corticosteroid treatment within the first seven days of life (early) in high-risk preterm infants. Most studies evaluated the use of dexamethasone, but we also included studies that assessed hydrocortisone, even when used primarily for management of hypotension.

DATA COLLECTION AND ANALYSIS

We used the GRADE approach to assess the quality of evidence.We extracted and analysed data regarding clinical outcomes that included mortality, bronchopulmonary dysplasia, death or bronchopulmonary dysplasia, failure to extubate, complications during primary hospitalisation, and long-term health outcomes.

MAIN RESULTS

We included 32 RCTs enrolling a total of 4395 participants. The overall risk of bias of included studies was probably low, as all were RCTs, and most trials used rigorous methods. Investigators reported significant benefits for the following outcomes overall: lower rates of failure to extubate, decreased risks of bronchopulmonary dysplasia both at 28 days of life and at 36 weeks' postmenstrual age, death or bronchopulmonary dysplasia at 28 days of life and at 36 weeks' postmenstrual age, patent ductus arteriosus, and retinopathy of prematurity (ROP), including severe ROP. Researchers found no significant differences in rates of neonatal or subsequent mortality; they noted that gastrointestinal bleeding and intestinal perforation were important adverse effects, and that risks of hyperglycaemia, hypertension, hypertrophic cardiomyopathy, and growth failure were increased. The 13 trials that reported late outcomes described several adverse neurological effects at follow-up examination, including cerebral palsy. However, study authors indicated that major neurosensory disability was not significantly increased, either overall in the eight studies for which this outcome could be determined, or in the two individual studies in which rates of cerebral palsy or abnormal neurological examination were significantly increased. Moreover, data show that rates of the combined outcomes of death or cerebral palsy, or of death or major neurosensory disability, were not significantly increased. Two-thirds of studies used dexamethasone (n = 21). Subgroup analyses by type of corticosteroid revealed that most of the beneficial and harmful effects of treatment were attributable to dexamethasone. However, as with dexamethasone, hydrocortisone was associated with reduced rates of patent ductus arteriosus, mortality, and the combined outcome of mortality or chronic lung disease, but with increased occurrence of intestinal perforation. Results showed that hydrocortisone was not associated with obvious longer-term problems.Use of the GRADE approach revealed that the quality of evidence was high for the major outcomes considered, but review authors downgraded quality one level for several outcomes (mortality at latest age, bronchopulmonary dysplasia at 36 weeks, and death or bronchopulmonary dysplasia at 36 weeks) because of weak evidence of publication bias or moderate heterogeneity (death or cerebral palsy).

AUTHORS' CONCLUSIONS

Benefits of early postnatal corticosteroid treatment (≤ 7 days), particularly dexamethasone, may not outweigh adverse effects associated with this treatment. Although early corticosteroid treatment facilitates extubation and reduces risk of bronchopulmonary dysplasia and patent ductus arteriosus, it causes short-term adverse effects including gastrointestinal bleeding, intestinal perforation, hyperglycaemia, hypertension, hypertrophic cardiomyopathy, and growth failure. Long-term follow-up studies report increased risk of abnormal findings on neurological examination and increased risk of cerebral palsy. However, the methodological quality of studies examining long-term outcomes is limited in some cases: Surviving children have been assessed predominantly before school age; no study has been sufficiently powered to detect important adverse long-term neurosensory outcomes; and no study has been designed with survival free of adverse long-term neurodevelopmental disability as the primary outcome. There is a compelling need for long-term follow-up and reporting of late outcomes, especially neurological and developmental outcomes, among surviving infants who participated in all randomised trials of early postnatal corticosteroid treatment. Hydrocortisone reduced rates of patent ductus arteriosus, of mortality, and of the combined outcome of mortality or bronchopulmonary dysplasia, without causing any obvious long-term harm. However, gastrointestinal perforation was more frequent in the hydrocortisone group. Longer-term follow-up into late childhood is vital for assessment of important effects or other effects that cannot be assessed in early childhood, such as effects of early hydrocortisone treatment on higher-order neurological functions, including cognitive function, academic performance, behaviour, mental health, and motor function. Further randomised controlled trials of early hydrocortisone should include longer-term survival free of neurodevelopmental disability as the main outcome.

Ventilation in Extremely Preterm Infants and Respiratory Function at 8 Years

BACKGROUND

Assisted ventilation for extremely preterm infants (<28 weeks of gestation) has become less invasive, but it is unclear whether such developments in care are associated with improvements in short-term or long-term lung function. We compared changes over time in the use of assisted ventilation and oxygen therapy during the newborn period and in lung function at 8 years of age in children whose birth was extremely premature.

METHODS

We conducted longitudinal follow-up of all survivors of extremely preterm birth who were born in Victoria, Australia, in three periods - the years 1991 and 1992 (225 infants), 1997 (151 infants), and 2005 (170 infants). Perinatal data were collected prospectively, including data on the duration and type of assisted ventilation provided, the duration of oxygen therapy, and oxygen requirements at 36 weeks of age. Expiratory airflow was measured at 8 years of age, and values were converted to z scores for age, height, ethnic group, and sex.

RESULTS

The duration of assisted ventilation rose substantially over time, with a large increase in the duration of nasal continuous positive airway pressure. Despite the increase in the use of less invasive ventilation over time, the duration of oxygen therapy and the rate of oxygen dependence at 36 weeks rose, and airflows at 8 years of age were worse in 2005 than in earlier periods. For instance, for 2005 versus 1991-1992, the mean difference in the z scores for the ratio of forced expiratory volume in 1 second to forced vital capacity was -0.75 (95% confidence interval [CI], -1.07 to -0.44; P<0.001), and for 2005 versus 1997 the mean difference was -0.53 (95% CI, -0.86 to -0.19; P=0.002).

CONCLUSIONS

Despite substantial increases in the use of less invasive ventilation after birth, there was no significant decline in oxygen dependence at 36 weeks and no significant improvement in lung function in childhood over time. (Funded by the National Health and Medical Research Council of Australia and the Victorian Government's Operational Infrastructure Support Program.).

Retrospective observational evaluation of postoperative oxygen saturation levels and associated postoperative respiratory complications and hospital resource utilization

Introduction

The clinical importance of postoperative episodic hypoxemia is still unclear, and therefore largely under-studied. As a result, there is limited understanding of its relationship with early postoperative respiratory complications (PRC, defined as intubation within three days of surgery) and hospital resource utilization.

Materials and methods

This single center study was performed using a retrospective observational design. We described population based definitions of desaturation from continuous SpO₂ monitoring data captured in the post anesthesia care unit (PACU), namely median SpO₂ in PACU, duration of desaturation below median, nadir desaturation, and length of oxygen therapy relative to PACU duration. These measures were evaluated against the occurrence of early PRC in logistic regression models. Measures that were independently associated with early PRC were accepted as the primary study exposures. Stratified logistic regression models were planned if significant interaction occurred with high risk surgical procedures. Models were adjusted by including several patient conditions, procedural, and anesthesia risk factors. Propensity matching on desaturation occurrence was planned to evaluate the relationship with postoperative resource utilization.

Results

Among 125,740 patients included in the univariate analyses, 351 patients (0.3%) developed early PRC. Nadir desaturation <89% [14.3% of patients; adjusted odds ratio 2.02; 95% CI 1.52, 2.68; p<0.001] and PACU oxygen therapy requirements greater than 60 min [adjusted odds ratio 1.92 (>60 min) to 3.04 (>90 min); p<0.001] were identified as independent predictors of early PRC occurrence. A modest interaction was observed between desaturation and higher surgical risk. Propensity matching for postoperative oxygen requirement was performed in 37,354 matched patients. Matched analysis demonstrated significant increase in day of surgery charges, respiratory charges, total charges, hospital length of stay, reintubation and use of invasive or non-invasive ventilatory support.

Conclusions

In summary, we report that prolonged PACU oxygen therapy and nadir desaturation <89% in PACU as captured in a retrospective database are independently associated with early PRC. This study describes resource implications of PACU desaturation in a large academic medical center in North America.

Effect of Intensive vs Moderate Alveolar Recruitment Strategies Added to Lung-Protective Ventilation on Postoperative Pulmonary Complications: A Randomized Clinical Trial

IMPORTANCE

Perioperative lung-protective ventilation has been recommended to reduce pulmonary complications after cardiac surgery. The protective role of a small tidal volume (VT) has been established, whereas the added protection afforded by alveolar recruiting strategies remains controversial.

OBJECTIVE

To determine whether an intensive alveolar recruitment strategy could reduce postoperative pulmonary complications, when added to a protective ventilation with small VT.

DESIGN, SETTING, AND PARTICIPANTS

Randomized clinical trial of patients with hypoxemia after cardiac surgery at a single ICU in Brazil (December 2011-2014).

INTERVENTIONS

Intensive recruitment strategy (n=157) or moderate recruitment strategy (n=163) plus protective ventilation with small VT.

MAIN OUTCOMES AND MEASURES

Severity of postoperative pulmonary complications computed until hospital discharge, analyzed with a common odds ratio (OR) to detect ordinal shift in distribution of pulmonary complication severity score (0-to-5 scale, 0, no complications; 5, death). Prespecified secondary outcomes were length of stay in the ICU and hospital, incidence of barotrauma, and hospital mortality.

RESULTS

All 320 patients (median age, 62 years; IQR, 56-69 years; 125 women [39%]) completed the trial. The intensive recruitment strategy group had a mean 1.8 (95% CI, 1.7 to 2.0) and a median 1.7 (IQR, 1.0-2.0) pulmonary complications score vs 2.1 (95% CI, 2.0-2.3) and 2.0 (IQR, 1.5-3.0) for the moderate strategy group. Overall, the distribution of primary outcome scores shifted consistently in favor of the intensive strategy, with a common OR for lower scores of 1.86 (95% CI, 1.22 to 2.83; P = .003). The mean hospital stay for the moderate group was 12.4 days vs 10.9 days in the intensive group (absolute difference, -1.5 days; 95% CI, -3.1 to -0.3; P = .04). The mean ICU stay for the moderate group was 4.8 days vs 3.8 days for the intensive group (absolute difference, -1.0 days; 95% CI, -1.6 to -0.2; P = .01). Hospital mortality (2.5% in the intensive group vs 4.9% in the moderate group; absolute difference, -2.4%, 95% CI, -7.1% to 2.2%) and barotrauma incidence (0% in the intensive group vs 0.6% in the moderate group; absolute difference, -0.6%; 95% CI, -1.8% to 0.6%; P = .51) did not differ significantly between groups.

CONCLUSIONS AND RELEVANCE

Among patients with hypoxemia after cardiac surgery, the use of an intensive vs a moderate alveolar recruitment strategy resulted in less severe pulmonary complications while in the hospital.

TRIAL REGISTRATION

clinicaltrials.gov Identifier: NCT01502332.

High-flow nasal oxygen availability for sedation decreases the use of general anesthesia during endoscopic retrograde cholangiopancreatography and endoscopic ultrasound

AIM

To examine whether high-flow nasal oxygen (HFNO) availability influences the use of general anesthesia (GA) in patients undergoing endoscopic retrograde cholangiopancreatography (ERCP) and endoscopic ultrasound (EUS) and associated outcomes.

METHODS

In this retrospective study, patients were stratified into 3 eras between October 1, 2013 and June 30, 2014 based on HFNO availability for deep sedation at the time of their endoscopy. During the first and last 3-mo eras (era 1 and 3), no HFNO was available, whereas it was an option during the second 3-mo era (era 2). The primary outcome was the percent utilization of GA vs deep sedation in each period. Secondary outcomes included oxygen saturation nadir during sedation between periods, as well as procedure duration, and anesthesia-only time between periods and for GA vs sedation cases respectively.

RESULTS

During the study period 238 ERCP or EUS cases were identified for analysis. Statistical testing was employed and a P < 0.050 was significant unless the Bonferroni correction for multiple comparisons was used. General anesthesia use was significantly lower in era 2 compared to era 1 with the same trend between era 2 and 3 (P = 0.012 and 0.045 respectively). The oxygen saturation nadir during sedation was significantly higher in era 2 compared to era 3 (P < 0.001) but not between eras 1 and 2 (P = 0.028) or 1 and 3 (P = 0.069). The procedure time within each era was significantly longer under GA compared to deep sedation (P≤ 0.007) as was the anesthesia-only time (P≤ 0.001).

CONCLUSION

High-flow nasal oxygen availability was associated with decreased GA utilization and improved oxygenation for ERCP and EUS during sedation.

Early nasal intermittent positive pressure ventilation (NIPPV) versus early nasal continuous positive airway pressure (NCPAP) for preterm infants

BACKGROUND

Nasal continuous positive airway pressure (NCPAP) is a strategy for maintaining positive airway pressure throughout the respiratory cycle through the application of bias flow of respiratory gas to an apparatus attached to the nose. Treatment with NCPAP is associated with decreased risk of mechanical ventilation and might be effective in reducing chronic lung disease. Nasal intermittent positive pressure ventilation (NIPPV) is a form of noninvasive ventilation during which patients are exposed intermittently to higher levels of airway pressure, along with NCPAP through the same nasal device.

OBJECTIVES

To examine the risks and benefits of early NIPPV versus early NCPAP alone for preterm infants at risk of or in respiratory distress within the first hours after birth.Primary endpoints are respiratory failure and the need for intubated ventilatory support during the first week of life. Secondary endpoints include chronic lung disease (CLD) (oxygen therapy at 36 weeks' postmenstrual age), air leaks, duration of respiratory support, duration of oxygen therapy, intraventricular hemorrhage, and incidence of mortality.

SEARCH METHODS

We used the standard search strategy of the Cochrane Neonatal Review Group to search the Cochrane Central Register of Controlled Trials (CENTRAL; 2015, Issue 9), MEDLINE via PubMed (1966 to September 28, 2015), Embase (1980 to September 28, 2015), and the Cumulative Index to Nursing and Allied Health Literature (CINAHL; 1982 to September 28, 2015). We also searched clinical trials databases, conference proceedings, and the reference lists of retrieved articles for randomized controlled trials and quasi-randomized trials. A member of the Cochrane Neonatal Review Group handsearched abstracts from the European Society of Pediatric Research (ESPR). We contacted the authors of ongoing clinical trials to ask for information.

SELECTION CRITERIA

We considered all randomized and quasi-randomized controlled trials. Studies selected compared NIPPV versus NCPAP treatment, starting at birth or shortly thereafter in preterm infants (< 37 weeks' gestational age).

DATA COLLECTION AND ANALYSIS

We performed data collection and analysis using the recommendations of the Cochrane Neonatal Review Group.

MAIN RESULTS

Ten trials, enrolling a total of 1061 infants, met criteria for inclusion in this review. Meta-analyses of these studies showed significantly reduced risk of meeting respiratory failure criteria (typical risk ratio (RR) 0.65, 95% confidence interval (CI) 0.51 to 0.82; typical risk difference (RD) -0.09, 95% CI -0.13 to -0.04) and needing intubation (typical RR 0.78, 95% CI 0.64 to 0.94; typical RD -0.07, 95% CI -0.12 to -0.02) among infants treated with early NIPPV compared with early NCPAP. The meta-analysis did not demonstrate a reduction in the risk of CLD among infants randomized to NIPPV (typical RR 0.78, 95% CI 0.58 to 1.06). Investigators observed no evidence of harm. Review authors graded the quality of the evidence as moderate (unblinded studies).

AUTHORS' CONCLUSIONS

Early NIPPV does appear to be superior to NCPAP alone for decreasing respiratory failure and the need for intubation and endotracheal tube ventilation among preterm infants with respiratory distress syndrome. Additional studies are needed to confirm these results and to assess the safety of NIPPV compared with NCPAP alone in a larger patient population.

Effect of Postextubation High-Flow Nasal Cannula vs Noninvasive Ventilation on Reintubation and Postextubation Respiratory Failure in High-Risk Patients: A Randomized Clinical Trial

IMPORTANCE

High-flow conditioned oxygen therapy delivered through nasal cannulae and noninvasive mechanical ventilation (NIV) may reduce the need for reintubation. Among the advantages of high-flow oxygen therapy are comfort, availability, lower costs, and additional physiopathological mechanisms.

OBJECTIVE

To test if high-flow conditioned oxygen therapy is noninferior to NIV for preventing postextubation respiratory failure and reintubation in patients at high risk of reintubation.

DESIGN, SETTING, AND PARTICIPANTS

Multicenter randomized clinical trial in 3 intensive care units in Spain (September 2012-October 2014) including critically ill patients ready for planned extubation with at least 1 of the following high-risk factors for reintubation: older than 65 years; Acute Physiology and Chronic Health Evaluation II score higher than 12 points on extubation day; body mass index higher than 30; inadequate secretions management; difficult or prolonged weaning; more than 1 comorbidity; heart failure as primary indication for mechanical ventilation; moderate to severe chronic obstructive pulmonary disease; airway patency problems; or prolonged mechanical ventilation.

INTERVENTIONS

Patients were randomized to undergo either high-flow conditioned oxygen therapy or NIV for 24 hours after extubation.

MAIN OUTCOMES AND MEASURES

Primary outcomes were reintubation and postextubation respiratory failure within 72 hours. Noninferiority margin was 10 percentage points. Secondary outcomes included respiratory infection, sepsis, and multiple organ failure, length of stay and mortality; adverse events; and time to reintubation.

RESULTS

Of 604 patients (mean age, 65 [SD, 16] years; 388 [64%] men), 314 received NIV and 290 high-flow oxygen. Sixty-six patients (22.8%) in the high-flow group vs 60 (19.1%) in the NIV group were reintubation (absolute difference, -3.7%; 95% CI, -9.1% to ∞); 78 patients (26.9%) in the high-flow group vs 125 (39.8%) in the NIV group experienced postextubation respiratory failure (risk difference, 12.9%; 95% CI, 6.6% to ∞) [corrected]. Median time to reintubation did not significantly differ: 26.5 hours (IQR, 14-39 hours) in the high-flow group vs 21.5 hours (IQR, 10-47 hours) in the NIV group (absolute difference, -5 hours; 95% CI, -34 to 24 hours). Median postrandomization ICU length of stay was lower in the high-flow group, 3 days (IQR, 2-7) vs 4 days (IQR, 2-9; P=.048). Other secondary outcomes were similar in the 2 groups. Adverse effects requiring withdrawal of the therapy were observed in none of patients in the high-flow group vs 42.9% patients in the NIV group (P < .001).

CONCLUSIONS AND RELEVANCE

Among high-risk adults who have undergone extubation, high-flow conditioned oxygen therapy was not inferior to NIV for preventing reintubation and postextubation respiratory failure. High-flow conditioned oxygen therapy may offer advantages for these patients.

TRIAL REGISTRATION

clinicaltrials.gov Identifier: NCT01191489.

Commonly Prescribed Medications Among Patients in Hospice Care for Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease

PURPOSE

End-stage chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) presents health care providers with challenges of providing optimal palliative care for patients who follow a less predictable trajectory. The objectives of this study were to evaluate medications being prescribed to patients with end-stage COPD, compared to recommendations made by the Global Initiative for Chronic Obstructive Lung Disease (GOLD) guidelines, and to determine which medications were provided by the hospice organization.

METHODS

We retrospectively reviewed our database for medications pertaining to COPD management as stated in the GOLD criteria or those used for symptoms associated with end of life.

RESULTS

A total of 745 patients met inclusion criteria, and approximately 63% were prescribed opioids. Prescribing rates for oxygen, short-acting β2-agonists, and short-acting anticholinergics were 37%, 33%, and 31%, respectively. Systemic and inhaled corticosteroids were prescribed at higher rates of 20% and 18% compared to long-acting bronchodilators.

DISCUSSION

Medications used for COPD exacerbation management were prescribed at higher rate than those used for maintenance treatment.

Epinephrine for transient tachypnea of the newborn

BACKGROUND

Transient tachypnea of the newborn is characterized by tachypnea and signs of respiratory distress. Transient tachypnea typically appears within the first two hours of life in term and late preterm newborns. Although transient tachypnea of the newborn is usually a self limited condition, it is associated with wheezing syndromes in late childhood. The rationale for the use of epinephrine (adrenaline) for transient tachypnea of the newborn is based on studies showing that β-agonists can accelerate the rate of alveolar fluid clearance.

OBJECTIVES

To assess whether epinephrine compared to placebo, no treatment or any other drugs (excluding salbutamol) is effective and safe in the treatment of transient tachypnea of the newborn in infants born at 34 weeks' gestational age or more.

SEARCH METHODS

We searched the Cochrane Central Register of Controlled Trials (CENTRAL, 2016, Issue 3), MEDLINE (1996 to March 2016), EMBASE (1980 to March 2016) and CINAHL (1982 to March 2016). We applied no language restrictions. We searched the abstracts of the major congresses in the field (Perinatal Society of Australia and New Zealand and Pediatric Academic Societies) from 2000 to 2015.

SELECTION CRITERIA

Randomized controlled trials, quasi-randomized controlled trials and cluster trials comparing epinephrine versus placebo or no treatment or any other drugs administered to infants born at 34 weeks' gestational age or more and less than three days of age with transient tachypnea of the newborn.

DATA COLLECTION AND ANALYSIS

For the included trial, two review authors independently extracted data (e.g. number of participants, birth weight, gestational age, duration of oxygen therapy (hours), need for continuous positive airway pressure and need for mechanical ventilation, duration of mechanical ventilation, etc.) and assessed the risk of bias (e.g. adequacy of randomization, blinding, completeness of follow-up). The primary outcomes considered in this review were duration of oxygen therapy (hours), need for continuous positive airway pressure and need for mechanical ventilation.

MAIN RESULTS

One trial, which included 20 infants, met the inclusion criteria of this review. Study authors administered three doses of nebulized 2.25% racemic epinephrine or placebo. We found no differences between the two group in the duration of supplemental oxygen therapy (mean difference (MD) -6.60, 95% confidence interval (CI) -54.80 to 41.60 hours) and need for mechanical ventilation (risk ratio (RR) 0.67, 95% CI 0.08 to 5.88; risk difference (RD) -0.07, 95% CI -0.46 to 0.32). Among secondary outcomes, we found no differences in terms of initiation of oral feeding. The quality of the evidence was limited due to the imprecision of the estimates.

AUTHORS' CONCLUSIONS

At present there is insufficient evidence to determine the efficacy and safety of epinephrine in the management of transient tachypnea of the newborn.

Salbutamol for transient tachypnea of the newborn

BACKGROUND

Transient tachypnea of the newborn is characterized by tachypnea and signs of respiratory distress. Transient tachypnea typically appears within the first two hours of life in term and late preterm newborns. Although transient tachypnea of the newborn is usually a self limited condition, it is associated with wheezing syndromes in late childhood. The rationale for the use of salbutamol (albuterol) for transient tachypnea of the newborn is based on studies showing that β-agonists can accelerate the rate of alveolar fluid clearance.

OBJECTIVES

To assess whether salbutamol compared to placebo, no treatment or any other drugs administered to treat transient tachypnea of the newborn, is effective and safe in the treatment of transient tachypnea of the newborn in infants born at 34 weeks' gestational age or more.

SEARCH METHODS

We searched the Cochrane Central Register of Controlled Trials (CENTRAL, 2016, Issue 3), MEDLINE (1996 to March 2016), EMBASE (1980 to March 2016) and CINAHL (1982 to March 2016). We applied no language restrictions. We searched the abstracts of the major congresses in the field (Perinatal Society of Australia New Zealand and Pediatric Academic Societies) from 2000 to 2015 and clinical trial registries.

SELECTION CRITERIA

Randomized controlled trials, quasi-randomized controlled trials and cluster trials comparing salbutamol versus placebo or no treatment or any other drugs administered to infants born at 34 weeks' gestational age or more and less than three days of age with transient tachypnea of the newborn.

DATA COLLECTION AND ANALYSIS

For each of the included trials, two review authors independently extracted data (e.g. number of participants, birth weight, gestational age, duration of oxygen therapy, need for continuous positive airway pressure and need for mechanical ventilation, duration of mechanical ventilation, etc.) and assessed the risk of bias (e.g. adequacy of randomization, blinding, completeness of follow-up). The primary outcomes considered in this review were duration of oxygen therapy, need for continuous positive airway pressure and need for mechanical ventilation.

MAIN RESULTS

Three trials, which included 140 infants, met the inclusion criteria. All three trials compared a nebulized dose of salbutamol with placebo; in one of the three trials newborns were assigned to two different doses of the intervention. We found differences in the duration of oxygen therapy (mean difference (MD) -43.10 hours, 95% confidence interval (CI) -81.60 to -4.60). There were no differences in the need for continuous positive airway pressure (risk ratio (RR) 0.73, 95% CI 0.38 to 1.39; risk difference (RD) -0.15, 95% CI -0.45 to 0.16; 1 study, 46 infants) or the need for mechanical ventilation (RR 1.50, 95% CI 0.06 to 34.79; RD 0.03, 95% CI -0.08 to 0.14; 1 study, 46 infants). Tests for heterogeneity were not applicable for any of the analyses as only one study was included. Among secondary outcomes, we found no differences in terms of duration of hospital stay and tachypnea. The quality of the evidence was very low due to the imprecision of the estimates. One trial is ongoing.

AUTHORS' CONCLUSIONS

At present there is insufficient evidence to determine the efficacy and safety of salbutamol in the management of transient tachypnea of the newborn. The quality of evidence was low due to paucity of included trials, small sample sizes and overall poor methodologic quality.

Oxygen for children and newborns in non-tertiary hospitals in South-west Nigeria: A needs assessment

BACKGROUND

Oxygen is important for the treatment of hypoxaemia associated with pneumonia, malaria, and other medical, obstetric, and surgical conditions. Access to oxygen therapy is limited in many of the high mortality settings where it would be of most benefit.

METHODS

A needs assessment of 12 non-tertiary hospitals in south-west Nigeria, assessing structural, technical and clinical barriers to the provision of safe and effective oxygen therapy.

RESULTS

Oxygen supply was reported to be a major challenge by hospital directors. All hospitals had some access to oxygen cylinders, which were expensive and frequently ran out. Nine (75%) hospitals used oxygen concentrators, which were limited by inadequate power supply and lack of maintenance capacity. Appropriate oxygen delivery and monitoring devices (nasal prongs, catheters, pulse oximeters) were poorly available, and no hospitals had clinical guidelines pertaining to the use of -oxygen for children. Oxygen was expensive to patients (median US$20/day) and to hospitals. Estimated oxygen demand is reported using both a constant mean-based estimate and adjustment for seasonal and other variability.

CONCLUSIONS

Making oxygen available to sick children and neonates in Nigerian hospitals will require: improving detection of hypoxaemia through routine use of pulse oximetry; improving access to oxygen through equipment, training, and maintenance structures; and commitment to building hospital and state structures that can sustain and expand oxygen initiatives.

Probability of IV antibiotic retreatment within thirty days is associated with duration and location of IV antibiotic treatment for pulmonary exacerbation in cystic fibrosis

BACKGROUND

There are few objective data to guide management of cystic fibrosis (CF) pulmonary exacerbations. We studied intravenous (IV) antibiotic treatment failure as defined by a need to retreat patients with IV antibiotics within 30days of completion of a prior IV antibiotic treatment for pulmonary exacerbation.

METHODS

The first IV-treated exacerbation on or after Jan. 1, 2010 among US CF Foundation Patient Registry patients was studied, combining treatments separated by <7days into single treatments. IV treatment duration categories were: 1-4, 5-8, 9-12, 13-16, 17-22, and ≥23days (inclusive). Logistic regressions for IV retreatment in ≤30days were adjusted with 12 categorical covariates, including age, sex, lung function, prior-year exacerbations, CF complications, CF Care Program, and ever/never treated in hospital.

RESULTS

777 of 13,579 patients (5.7%) were retreated within 30days, with incidence varying by treatment duration: 1-4days, 8.7%; 5-8days; 6.6%; 9-12days, 3.2%; 13-16days, 4.5%; 17-22days, 6.2%; ≥23days, 10.3% and hospitalization: ever, 5.0%; never 8.5%. Adjusted odds ratios (OR) for retreatment (compared to 13-16days treatment) were: 1-4days, 1.94 [95%CI 1.49, 2.54] P<.001; 5-8days, 1.55 [1.18, 2.04] P=.002; 9-12days, 0.78 [0.58, 1.04] P=.09; 17-22days, 1.12 [0.88, 1.42] P=.37; ≥23days, 1.46 [1.12, 1.91] P=.005. Adjusted retreatment OR for never/ever hospitalized was 1.57 [1.29, 1.90] P<.001. Prior-year exacerbation number, oxygen therapy, non-invasive ventilation, and female sex were significantly associated with retreatment. Modeling hazard rate time-dependence showed that treatment duration and location-associated hazard rates attenuated within a few months after treatment.

CONCLUSION

After adjustment for covariates known to be associated with increased risk of IV treatment for exacerbation, IV antibiotic treatments of <9 and ≥23days and those without hospitalization were significant risk factors for IV retreatment within 30days of completion of an exacerbation treatment.