A Novel Prototype Neonatal Resuscitator That Controls Tidal Volume and Ventilation Rate: A Comparative Study of Mask Ventilation in a Newborn Manikin.

The objective of this randomized controlled manikin trial was to examine tidal volume (V) delivery and ventilation rate during mask positive pressure ventilation (PPV) with five different devices, including a volume-controlled prototype Next Step™ device for neonatal resuscitation. We hypothesized that V and rate would be closest to target with the Next Step™. Twenty-five Neonatal Resuscitation Program providers provided mask PPV to a newborn manikin (simulated weight 1 kg) in a randomized order with a self-inflating bag (SIB), a disposable T-piece, a non-disposable T-piece, a stand-alone resuscitation system T-piece, and the Next Step™.

Comparison of positive pressure ventilation devices in a newborn manikin.

Objective: To compare tidal volume (V) delivery and ventilation rate between devices for positive pressure ventilation (PPV) during newborn resuscitation.

Methods: Neonatal resuscitation program providers (n = 25) delivered PPV to a newborn manikin in a randomized order with: a self-inflating bag (SIB), a disposable T-piece, a non-disposable T-piece, a stand-alone infant resuscitation system T-piece and the volume-controlled prototype Next Step device (KM Medical). All T-pieces used a peak inflation pressure of 20cmHO and a 5cmHO positive end-expiratory pressure (PEEP).

Bio-inspired flow sensor from printed PEDOT:PSS micro-hairs.

This paper reports on the creation of a low-cost, disposable sensor for low flow velocities, constructed from extruded micro-sized 'hair' of conducting polymer PEDOT. These microstructures are inspired by hair strands found in many arthropods and chordates, which play a prime role in sensing air flows. The paper describes the fabrication techniques and the initial prototype testing results toward employing this sensing mechanism in applications requiring sensing of low flow rates such as a flow sensor in neonatal resuscitators.