Fatores indicativos para ventilação mecânica em recém-nascidos

Th e anatomical and physiological characteristics of the respiratory system of the newborn (NW) require, in some cases, ventilatory assistance. Th e mechanical ventilation (MV) is used because it promotes gas exchange and ensures oxygen to other parts of the body. Objective: To examine whether the gender, type of delivery, gestational age, birth weight, gestational age classifi cation as Apgar are predisposing factors of the NW for VM and identify the most frequent pathologies. Methods: Cross retrospective study with a sample of 84 NW hospitalized in the Neonatal Intensive Care Unit of the Regional Hospital of Ceilandia in Brasilia, in 2007. Data were collected through a special form containing NW data. Th e Chi-square was used for the statistical analysis. Results and conclusion: We found statistically signifi cant diff erences in gestational age up to 36 weeks, Apgar in the fi fth minute (Apgar 5’) with values ≥ 4 and classifi cation appropriate for gestational age. Further studies should be conducted to better know the profi le of the hospitalized NW and observe the benefi ts and disadvantages of VM, as well as off ering a treatment that leads to better clinical outcome and less complications. Key-words: mechanical ventilation, neonatal intensive care unit,