ABSTRACT
OBJECTIVE: The objective of this study was to predict extubation readiness in preterm infants using machine learning analysis of bedside pulse oximeter and ventilator data. STUDY DESIGN: This is an observational study with prospective recordings of oxygen saturation (SpO2) and ventilator data from infants <30 weeks of gestation age. Research pulse oximeters collected SpO2 (1 Hz sampling rate) to quantify intermittent hypoxemia (IH). Continuous ventilator metrics were collected (4-5-minute sampling) from bedside ventilators. Data modeling was completed using unbiased machine learning algorithms. Three model sets were created using the following data source combinations: (1) IH and ventilator (IH + SIMV), (2) IH, and (3) ventilator (SIMV). Infants were also analyzed separated by postnatal age (infants <2 or ≥2 weeks of age). Models were compared by area under the receiver operating characteristic curve (AUC). RESULTS: A total of 110 extubation events from 110 preterm infants were analyzed. Infants had a median gestation age and birth weight of 26 weeks and 825 g, respectively. Of the 3 models presented, the IH + SIMV model achieved the highest AUC of 0.77 for all infants. Separating infants by postnatal age increased accuracy further achieving AUC of 0.94 for <2 weeks of age group and AUC of 0.83 for ≥2 weeks group. CONCLUSIONS: Machine learning analysis has the potential to enhance prediction accuracy of extubation readiness in preterm infants while utilizing readily available data streams from bedside pulse oximeters and ventilators.
ABSTRACT
Currently, the administration of surfactant to preterm infants with respiratory distress syndrome (RDS) mainly relies on intratracheal instillation; however, there is increasing evidence of aerosolized surfactant being an effective non-invasive strategy. We present a historical narrative spanning sixty years of development of aerosolization systems. We also offer an overview of the pertinent mechanisms needed to create and manage the ideal aerosolization system, with a focus on delivery, distribution, deposition, and dispersion in the context of the human lung. More studies are needed to optimize treatment with aerosolized surfactants, including determination of ideal dosages, nebulizer types, non-invasive interfaces, and breath synchronization. However, the field is rapidly evolving, and widespread clinical use may be achieved in the near future.
ABSTRACT
Preterm infants with respiratory distress may require mechanical ventilation which is associated with increased pulmonary morbidities. Prompt and successful extubation to noninvasive support is a pressing goal. In this communication, we show original data that increased recurring intermittent hypoxemia (IH, oxygen saturation <80%) may be associated with extubation failure at 72 h in a cohort of neonates <30 weeks gestational age. Current-generation bedside high-resolution pulse oximeters provide saturation profiles that may be of use in identifying extubation readiness and failure. A larger prospective study that utilizes intermittent hypoxemia as an adjunct predictor for extubation readiness is warranted.
ABSTRACT
There is a growing need for advanced practice providers in the NICU. Physician assistants (PAs) with postgraduate training in neonatology can help meet these demands. The premise of training PAs to work in the NICU is being adopted by multiple centers nationwide. Unfortunately, there are no standardized curricula for neonatal PA training that can be utilized to initiate residencies. Since our program is the longest running neonatal PA residency in the nation, we are in a unique position to share the accumulated experiences of our curriculum development. In this article, we describe our neonatal PA residency as it exists today with selected lessons learned. In addition, we present mixed qualitative and quantitative assessments of graduates. We believe that neonatal PA residency graduates become ideal candidates to fill the growing national need. We propose that our model program can be a stepping stone to enhance the role of PAs in neonatal care.
