CPAP
Pronunciation: SEE-pap
Also written as: CPAP — Continuous Positive Airway Pressure
Continuous positive airway pressure ventilation commonly used in pediatric perioperative care.
Full Definition
Continuous positive airway pressure is a form of non-invasive ventilatory support that maintains constant positive pressure throughout the respiratory cycle. In pediatric anesthesia, CPAP is frequently used for children with obstructive sleep apnea, respiratory distress, or those requiring gentle ventilatory support without intubation. The technique helps maintain functional residual capacity and prevents alveolar collapse, making it particularly valuable in managing young patients with compromised respiratory function during the perioperative period.
Usage
Usage note: Distinguish from BiPAP which provides two pressure levels.
In Context
- "The child with severe OSA was maintained on CPAP throughout the recovery period." — Post-anesthesia care documentation
- "CPAP settings were adjusted to 8 cm H2O for optimal oxygenation in this pediatric patient." — Ventilator management notes