The Effect of 2 Humidifier Temperature Settings on Inspired Gas Temperatures and the Physiological Parameters of Preterm Infants Receiving Mechanical Ventilation Therapy

BACKGROUND The use of heated and humidified gas during mechanical ventilation is routine care in neonatal intensive care units. Giving gas at inadequate heat and humidity levels can affect neonatal morbidity and mortality. PURPOSE To compare the effects of 2 humidifier temperature settings on the temperature and humidity of the inspired gas and the physiologic parameters in preterm newborns receiving mechanical ventilation. METHODS The research was conducted in a single-group quasi-experimental design. Proximal temperature was measured using a humidity heat transmitter. The humidifier temperature was set at 38°C (temperature I) and then at 39°C (temperature II). RESULTS The mean proximal temperatures were significantly lower than the values set in the humidifier (33.8 ± 1.20°C at temperature I, and 34.06 ± 1.30°C at temperature II, P < .001). However, the difference between the 2 proximal temperatures was not significant (P = .162). The incubator temperature was found to be effective on the proximal gas temperature (P < .05). It was found that only preterm infants in the temperature II group had a higher mean heart rate (P < .05). IMPLICATIONS FOR PRACTICE Incubator temperatures may have an effect on inspired gas temperature in preterm infants who are mechanically ventilated and caregivers should be aware of these potentially negative effects. IMPLICATIONS FOR RESEARCH Future studies should focus on how to measure the temperature and humidity of gas reaching infants in order to prevent heat and humidity losses.