Impact of real-time respiratory function monitoring on neonatal mask ventilation training: a multicentre simulation-based crossover study
In brief
Real-time breathing monitor cuts mask leak and improves tidal volumes
In a multicentre crossover simulation, clinicians who could see respiratory function monitor feedback delivered neonatal mask ventilation with less mask leak and more breaths within the 4-8 mL/kg tidal-volume target, especially on preterm and term manikins. The benefit persisted after the display was hidden, indicating a short-term learning carry-over.
- Journal
- BMJ paediatrics open (Q1)
- Published
- 15 September 2026
- Study design
- Randomized controlled trial
- Evidence level
- Level 1, High (CEBM 1b)
- Authors
- Latifah Alrashed, Eliane Bodanese
- PMID
- 42744657
- DOI
- 10.1136/bmjpo-2026-004894
Why clinicians should know about it
- Picked for Neonatology (top studies of the week, 20 September 2026): Visible RFM feedback improves mask ventilation performance in simulation
- Picked for Emergency Medicine (top studies of the week, 20 September 2026): Neonatal mask ventilation training irrelevant to adult ED
Abstract
OBJECTIVE: To evaluate whether visibility of respiratory function monitor (RFM) feedback improves mask ventilation performance and influences subsequent ventilation performance during neonatal resuscitation training. DESIGN: multicentre randomised crossover simulation study. PARTICIPANTS: Healthcare professionals involved in neonatal resuscitation training across participating centres. INTERVENTION: Participants performed positive pressure ventilation (PPV) on both term and premature manikins under two conditions: with visible RFM feedback and with the display masked. The order of feedback visibility was randomised. Each participant completed ventilation assessments in both conditions. MAIN OUTCOME MEASURES: Primary outcomes were expired tidal volume (Vte) and mask leak (%). The proportion of breaths within the target Vte range (4-8 mL/kg) was calculated as a performance indicator. Secondary outcomes included variability in Vte and mask leak to assess ventilation stability between conditions. RESULTS: Visible RFM feedback was associated with lower mask leak and improved ventilation stability in the preterm manikin and with tidal volumes entering the target range in the term manikin. Participants initially ventilated with visible feedback maintained performance after feedback removal, suggesting a carry-over learning effect. CONCLUSION: In this multicentre crossover simulation study, visible RFM feedback was associated with changes in mask ventilation performance and evidence of a carry-over learning effect following feedback removal. Real-time visibility of respiratory parameters may strengthen neonatal resuscitation training.
Abstract as published, via PubMed.
For healthcare professionals. The summary is generated by AI from the published abstract, and the evidence level is assigned automatically from the study design on the Oxford CEBM hierarchy. Neither is medical advice. Read the full paper before changing practice.