What is the role of continuous positive airway pressure (CPAP) in newborn care?

Continuous positive airway pressure (CPAP) plays a crucial role in the management of newborns, particularly those who are experiencing respiratory distress. Its primary function is to improve oxygenation and maintain the patency of the alveoli, the tiny air sacs in the lungs where gas exchange occurs. By delivering a constant pressure to the airways, CPAP helps keep the alveoli open, preventing their collapse at the end of expiration.

This method is particularly beneficial for premature infants or those with conditions like Respiratory Distress Syndrome (RDS), as it facilitates easier breathing without requiring more invasive interventions like intubation. When the alveoli remain open, it increases surface area for gas exchange, enhances the likelihood of adequate oxygen saturation, and reduces the work of breathing.

In contrast, other options like lowering heart rate or managing blood pressure are not direct roles of CPAP. Stabilizing core body temperature is also a critical aspect of neonatal care, but it is not achieved through the application of CPAP. Thus, the correct choice underscores the essential function of CPAP in respiratory support for newborns.