Abstract
This prospective case series documented hypoxemia and potential complications associated
with apneic oxygenation in critically ill pediatric patients during rapid sequence
intubation. Forty-four patients received apneic oxygenation via nasal cannula at rates
of 5, 10, and 15 L/min for ages <4, 4 to 12, and 12 to 18 years, respectively. Pre-
and postintubation attempt mean Spo
2 were 98.9 ± 2.95 and 90.7 ± 1.95%, respectively. Postintubation Spo
2 < 80% were significantly less with one intubation attempt, compared with multiple
attempts (p < 0.001). No serious complications were noted. Apneic oxygenation was well tolerated
in critically ill children.
Keywords
apneic oxygenation - hypoxemia - airway management