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Background: Hypocarbia is associated with adverse neurodevelopmental outcome in ventilated preterm infants. Most neonatal blood gas (BG) sampling is performed by pediatric trainees. We have previously shown that the monthly incidence of hypocarbia is affected by trainee experience. Aims: To compare the incidence of significant hypocarbia in infants < 1500g, or < 32 weeks gestation, and < 8 days old before (Audit 1, 2004-6) and after (Audit 2, 2008-9) equipment and training changes.

Background: Endotracheal intubation is a common procedure performed in NICU. Sometimes, it is difficult to confirm the successful intubation using standard methods like auscultation. Exhaled CO2 detectors have been widely used in paediatric and adult population and sparingly in neonates. It has been felt that it is an effective confirmation technique for successful intubations. Aim: To determine whether use of exhaled CO2 detector during neonatal intubation reduces number of attempts during neonatal intubation and increases the certainty about successful intubation. Method: Data were collected for each intubation on a pre-designed proforma at tertiary neonatal unit for three months before (Group A) and after introduction of exhaled CO2 detector (Group B). Data were obtained as part of an audit so ethical approval was not required.

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