Continuous positive airway pressure (CPAP) and bi-level positive airway pressure (BiPAP) are methods of increasing the amount of oxygen a patient breathes. A face mask is placed securely over the patient’s nose and mouth and a mechanical ventilator forces air into the patient’s lungs.
Recently, a study comparing nasal CPAP therapy and face mask ventilation therapy demonstrated decreased need for intubation rates when these modalities are used. CPAP and BiPAP cannot be used in confused, uncooperative, combative, or unconscious pa-tients. CPAP is easier and less invasive to use than put-ting an endotracheal tube in the patient’s throat.