Ventilatory support and predictors of hospital stay in neonates

Background: Ventilatory support in neonatal intensive care units (NICU) and related care modalities have profound lifelong benefits for neonates. Method: Ventilatory support and predictors of hospital stay were prospectively examined in 262 neonates and their mothers who were admitted to a NICU. A mixed-model, generalized estimating equation approach was used for prediction analysis, accounting for the dependencies of multiple births (26.3% of sample). Results: Predictors for hospital stay included gestational age, congenital defects, birth weight, days requiring ventilator support, and oxvgen support. Cubic curves present the best-fit model for the relationships between maturity (gestational age and birth weight) and length of hospital stay; along with days requiring oxygen support, ventilator support, and central arterial and venous access lines. Conclusion: Ventilatory support and associated care modalities are important resources for high-risk neonates during hospital stay. Future studies need to determine the best care course for neonatal ventilatory support to prevent complications.