Ventilator Parameters Predicting the Outcome of Respiratory Distress in Neonate

Respiratory distress (RD) is one of the major causes of morbidity and mortality in neonates. The prospective study was conducted in all neonates with RD, admitted to the neonatal unit over a period of two years. The clinical profile, aetiology and outcome were studied and relevant investigations were conducted in all the cases. Out of 269 neonates admitted with RD, 59.85% had pneumonia. The overall mortality was 23.05%. The outcome was correlated with the aetiology, clinical presentation, oxygen requirements and ventilator support. A higher A-ADO₂, a lower pH, early age of onset of respiratory distress, higher initial FiO₂ required to keep SpO₂ > 90% and a high respiratory index were all significant predictors of mortality.