Children’s respiratory support devices encompass a range of technologies designed to assist or replace a child’s natural breathing function. These devices can vary from simple oxygen masks providing supplemental oxygen to sophisticated ventilators that completely control respiration. A common example is a continuous positive airway pressure (CPAP) machine, often used for infants with underdeveloped lungs or children experiencing sleep apnea.
Such devices are critical in various pediatric respiratory conditions, including bronchiolitis, pneumonia, asthma, and cystic fibrosis. They can improve oxygen levels, reduce the work of breathing, and ultimately support survival and recovery. The development and refinement of these technologies have significantly improved the prognosis for many children with respiratory illnesses, representing a significant advance in pediatric healthcare.