Feasibility of Noninvasive Positive Pressure Ventilation in the Treatment of Oxygen-Dependent COVID-19 Patients in Peru

ABSTRACT. Intensive care is expensive, and availability limited. Low- middle-income countries in particular have struggled to cope with the large influx of critically ill patients during COVID-19 pandemic. Noninvasive respiratory support devices delivering continuous positive airways pressure (CPAP) require less resource staff expertise compared invasive mechanical ventilators can be routinely used outside intensive units. This study assessed use UCL-Ventura Wayrachi CPAP device hospitalized Peru. A secondary analysis data collected for a feasibility commissioned by Peruvian Ministry Health was conducted. Data were from three hospitals, including patient demographics, clinical data, outcomes. Forty-five enrolled July 16 September 1, 2020. Eight (18%) intolerant mask. Of remainder, 18 (48.7%) improved discharged hospital after 6 days. (21.6%) died while on 11 (29.7%) eventually intubated, whom two died. In total, 27 (60%) survived discharge. Participating physicians noted easy provided benefit, though voiced concerns about strain oxygen supplies. conclusion, UCL Ventura proved feasible Peru, offered bridging therapy who required ventilator when none available.