Comparison of the effect of supine and prone positions on physiological parameters of preterm infants under nasal continuous positive airway pressure (N-CPAP): a cross over clinical trial

Purpose: The aim of this study was to compare the effect of supine and prone positions on physiological parameters of preterm infants under nasal continuous positive airway pressure (N-CPAP). Materials and Methods: This cross-over clinical trial was conducted on 62 hospitalized preterm infants under N-CPAP in the neonatal intensive care unit of Imam Reza Hospital Kermanshah, Iran. Neonates were placed in supine position at first for 180 minutes and then their position was changed into prone position for another 180 minutes. During this period, heart rate (HR), respiratory rate (RR) and arterial oxygen saturation (So2) were assessed once every 15 minutes in two positions. Results: There was significant difference observed in the means of HR in two positions. The RR in the prone position was significantly lower than that in the supine position; however, the So2 in the prone position was significantly higher than the supine position.Conclusion: The results of this study showed in preterm infants with respiratory distress syndrome under N-CPAP, there was lower RR and higher So2 in prone position when compared to the supine position. Therefore, preterm infants have better physiological stability in prone position.