Treatment
Treatment for a baby with RDS usually includes oxygen and may also include:
Mechanical Respirator
A mechanical respirator (breathing machine) is used to keep the air sacs from collapsing and to improve the exchange of oxygen and other gases in the lungs. This treatment helps the baby breathe better and is almost always required in severe RDS. High-frequency ventilation may be used to reduce lung injury.
Surfactant Treatment
Surfactant can be given to help the air sacs in the lungs expand and take in more oxygen. There are two options, both of which are delivered directly into the baby's windpipe. One type of surfactant comes from cows and the other is synthetic. As the surfactant takes effect, use of the respirator can gradually be reduced.
Inhaled Nitric Oxide
This inhaled gas may be used to improve oxygenation.
Nutrition Support
Newborns with RDS may be given food and water by the following means:
- Tube feeding—a tube is inserted through the baby's mouth and into the stomach
- Parenteral feeding—nutrients are delivered directly into a vein
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