Journal of pediatric intensive care
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Noninvasive ventilation has been available for many years for use in the pediatric population. Historically, continuous positive airway pressure and bilevel positive airway pressure modes were used for respiratory diseases, including neonatal apnea, bronchiolitis, asthma, and pneumonia. ⋯ Studies have shown that these therapies can decrease the need for intubation and ventilation, decrease length of intensive care days, and increase patient comfort. Additional research is needed to support optimal setting selection and recommendations for the use of noninvasive therapies for infants and children.