What are the indications for CPAP?
Indications for non-invasive ventilation including CPAP consist of:
- For neonates, infants and pediatric patients. Asthma. Bronchiolitis. Obstructive sleep apnea syndrome.
- For adults. Obstructive sleep apnea syndrome. Chronic obstructive pulmonary disease with exacerbation. Acute congestive heart failure with pulmonary edema.
What are the indications and contraindications of CPAP?
Contraindications
- Uncooperative or extremely anxious patient.
- Reduced consciousness and inability to protect their airway.
- Unstable cardiorespiratory status or respiratory arrest.
- Trauma or burns involving the face.
- Facial, esophageal, or gastric surgery.
- Air leak syndrome (pneumothorax with bronchopleural fistula)
When should EMS use CPAP?
It should be used on patients who are alert and able to follow commands, show signs of respiratory distress, have rapid breathing, and a pulse oximetry of less than 90%.
When should an EMT not use a CPAP?
3,4 While CPAP makes it easier for patients to breathe, it is not a ventilator and does not breathe for them. Therefore it is contraindicated in cases of hypoventilation, decreased mentation or any potential airway compromise, such as vomiting.
What is CPAP used for in EMS?
Continuous positive airway pressure (CPAP) is non-invasive positive pressure ventilation (NIPPV) that helps improve the work of breathing and oxygenation for individuals with different cardiopulmonary complaints related to primary respiratory or cardiovascular complaints.
Is CPAP a BLS skill?
The largest barrier to BLS CPAP adoption used to be addressing BLS protocols dictated by the state. Currently, more than three-quarters of states in the U.S. allow CPAP at the BLS level. In the states that don’t, the new 2019 National EMS Scope of Practice Model includes CPAP at the BLS level.
Which is better CPAP or BiPAP?
Many patients find BiPAP more comfortable than the single pressure delivered by CPAP machines. BiPAP may also be used for patients who require some breathing assistance. BiPAP has been prescribed for patients who have congestive heart failure and other serious diseases affecting the heart and lungs.