Work of Breathing in Premature Infants at Discharge

Work of Breathing and Oxygen Saturation Stability in Premature Infants With History of Respiratory Insufficiency Prior to Discharge

The purpose of this study is to compare how premature infants who required oxygen for at least 28 days during their time in the NICU (Neonatal Intensive Care Unit) breathe at discharge compared to premature infants who did not require oxygen for at least 28 days during their time in the NICU.

Work of breathing tests will be performed on premature infants who required oxygen for at least 28 days during their time in NICU. These same work of breathing tests will be performed in another group of premature infants who did not require oxygen for at least 28 days during their time in the NICU. The two groups will be compared.

Inclusion Criteria:

• Infants born at greater than 26 weeks gestation, weighing less than 1500 grams at birth.
• Infants with diagnosis of BPD and without diagnosis of BPD

Exclusion Criteria:

• Infants with skeletal, neuromuscular, or abdominal surgical disorders that affect the accuracy of work of breathing measurements will be excluded.