Neonatal Nurse Practitioner Practice Exam

Which description best fits how CPAP is delivered?

1. Via a mechanical ventilator exclusively

2. Stand-alone NCPAP or BCPAP systems

3. Through nasal prongs only

4. Utilizing portable oxygen tanks

The correct answer is: Stand-alone NCPAP or BCPAP systems

The best description of how Continuous Positive Airway Pressure (CPAP) is delivered is through stand-alone NCPAP or BCPAP systems. This method allows for the delivery of a continuous flow of air or oxygen mixed with air, maintaining a positive pressure within the airways. NCPAP refers to Nasal Continuous Positive Airway Pressure, which is often used for preterm infants to prevent or treat respiratory distress syndrome. BCPAP stands for Bubble Continuous Positive Airway Pressure and is a method where bubbles are created in a water column to provide humidified CPAP. Using a mechanical ventilator exclusively does not encompass the range of options available for CPAP delivery, as there are targeted systems specifically designed for providing CPAP without mechanical ventilation. Though nasal prongs are a common interface for delivering CPAP, they do not capture the full spectrum of how CPAP can be administered, including interfaces like face masks or nasal masks, which are used in various scenarios. Utilizing portable oxygen tanks pertains more to supplemental oxygen delivery rather than to CPAP delivery systems, which specifically maintain constant airway pressure rather than just providing oxygen therapy. Thus, B is the most comprehensive and accurate description.