nasal intermittent positive pressure ventilation
Also written as: NIPPV — Nasal Intermittent Positive Pressure Ventilation
A non-invasive ventilation technique that delivers intermittent positive pressure breaths through nasal prongs without endotracheal intubation.
Full Definition
Nasal intermittent positive pressure ventilation (NIPPV) is a non-invasive respiratory support method used in neonatal intensive care that provides mechanical ventilation through nasal prongs or masks rather than an endotracheal tube. This technique combines the benefits of continuous positive airway pressure (CPAP) with intermittent mandatory breaths, helping to maintain functional residual capacity while reducing the work of breathing. NIPPV is particularly valuable for preterm infants who need more respiratory support than CPAP alone but may not require full intubation. The method can be used as primary respiratory support or as a step-down therapy from mechanical ventilation.
Usage
Usage note: Distinguish from CPAP in documentation; specify ventilator settings including peak pressure and PEEP.
In Context
- "The 30-week preterm infant was successfully extubated to NIPPV with good respiratory effort." — Respiratory therapy note
- "NIPPV settings were adjusted to provide a peak pressure of 20 cmH2O and PEEP of 6 cmH2O." — Ventilator management order