CONTINUOUS POSITIVE AIRWAY PRESSURE (CPAP)

This procedure may be performed on any patient 18 years old or older in CHF, Respiratory Distress with Bronchospasm, and pneumonia, who has TWO of the following:

A.  Retractions or accessory muscle use
B.  Respiratory rate >25 per minute
C.  SpO₂ ≥94%

A.  Apnea
B.  Vomiting or active GI bleed
C.  Major trauma/pneumothorax
D.  Altered Mental Status

A.  Assess patient and document VS, SpO₂ and ETCO₂ prior to applying oxygen.
B.  Select the appropriate size face mask for the patient.
C.  Inform patient about procedure process.
D.  Gradually increase the flow rate, slowly reaching the desired CPAP pressure.
E.  Secure face mask onto patient face using the head harness.
F.  Check the mask and tubing for leaks.
G.  Reassess patient and document every five minutes.
H.  If patient develops any of the contraindications or requires definitive airway control, discontinue CPAP and provide necessary airway control.