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ARTICLE:
Michele Walsh, William Engle, Abbot Laptook, S. Nadya J. Kazzi, Susie Buchter, Maynard Rasmussen, Qing Yao for the National Institute of Child Health and Human Development Neonatal Research Network
Oxygen Delivery Through Nasal Cannulae to Preterm Infants: Can Practice Be Improved?
Pediatrics 2005; 116: 857-861 [Abstract] [Full text] [PDF]
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[Read eLetters] Easy estimation of FiO2
Michael P Hewson   (7 October 2005)

Easy estimation of FiO2 7 October 2005
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Michael P Hewson,
Neonatologist
Wellington Hospital

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Re: Easy estimation of FiO2

michael.hewson{at}ccdhb.org.nz Michael P Hewson

As Dr Walsh and co-workers state, estimating actual inspired FiO2 using low flow cannulae may be helpful in terms of weaning oxygen therapy, however the calculations required are cumbersome to perform.

To overcome this impediment, we used the validated formula of Finer et al, 1998, to produce a javascript web-based calculator which allows the physician to input infant weight, respiratory rate, and oxygen flow rate. Actual inspired oxygen concentration is calculated instantly.

This calculator is freely available at www.nicutools.org

Reference

Finer NN, Bates R, Tomat P. Low flow oxygen delivery via nasal cannula to neonates. Pediatr Pulmonol. 1996;21 :48 –51

Conflict of Interest:

Co-producer of nicutools.org