Abstract Rationale Neonatal acute respiratory distress remains a critical challenge in intensive care settings, often demanding advanced ventilation strategies beyond conventional methods. High-frequency ventilation (HFV) has emerged as a life-saving intervention, yet its utilization in clinical practice varies considerably, particularly in regions where standardized protocols are limited. Objectives To assess the current practices, knowledge, and clinical approaches related to the use of HFV in managing neonatal acute respiratory distress among healthcare providers in Saudi Arabia. Methods A nationwide cross-sectional survey was conducted among neonatologists and respiratory therapists in Saudi Arabia. The structured questionnaire assessed participants’ practice of HFV and identified key barriers to its implementation in clinical settings. Descriptive statistics were presented as means and standard deviations (SD), while inferential statistics were used to examine differences in practices and perceptions between respiratory therapists and physicians. Results A total of 2,182 healthcare providers completed the survey, with respiratory therapists (RTs) representing the majority (67.1%). HFV training was reported by 72.8% of participants, and 57.7% indicated the presence of HFV protocols at their hospitals. RTs were more likely than physicians to use a frequency range of 3-15 Hz (69.0% vs. 52.4%, p 0.001) and to set mean airway pressure (ΔP) between 25-30 cmH2O (44.9% vs. 27.5%, p 0.001). For hypercapnia management, RTs favored increasing ΔP and decreasing frequency (1-2 Hz) more than physicians (44.0% vs. 30.5%, p 0.001). The most cited barriers among both groups were lack of knowledge, absence of protocols, and inadequate training. Conclusion Significant discrepancies in HFV practices among healthcare providers underscore the urgent need for standardized clinical guidelines and targeted training to ensure safe, effective, and consistent neonatal respiratory care across Saudi Arabia. Figure 1. Barriers to HFV implementation by profession. This abstract is funded by: None
Aldhahir et al. (Fri,) studied this question.