In the immediate minutes after birth, which form of respiratory support is commonly used for many preterm infants?

• A. Intubation with ventilation for all preterm infants.
• B. Oxygen by face mask only.
• C. Nasal CPAP (continuous positive airway pressure).
• D. Nebulized saline.

Answer: (C)

In the minutes after birth, helping preterm babies keep their tiny lungs inflated and work efficiently to breathe is the goal. Nasal CPAP delivers a gentle, continuous positive airway pressure through prongs in the nose, which helps keep the airways open, improves oxygenation, and reduces the effort required to breathe. This noninvasive support supports spontaneous breathing and lowers the chance that a baby will need endotracheal intubation and mechanical ventilation, which carry more risks for immature lungs. Providing oxygen by mask alone doesn’t maintain airway pressure or prevent collapse of the tiny air sacs, and it can lead to unstable oxygen levels. Nebulized saline doesn’t provide the necessary lung inflation or ventilation support for immediate stabilization. So, nasal CPAP is the most commonly used form of respiratory support right after birth for many preterm infants.