RecruitingNot ApplicableNCT07579013

Effect of Postural Drainage With or Without Thoracic Squeezing on O2 and Respiratory Rate in Infant With RDS.

Immediate Effects of Postural Drainage With or Without Thoracic Squeezing on Oxygen Saturation and Respiratory Rate in Children With Respiratory Distress Syndrome.

Sponsor

Riphah International University

Enrollment

14 participants

Start Date

Oct 28, 2025

Study Type

INTERVENTIONAL

Conditions

Respiratory distress syndrome

Summary

This study investigated whether adding thoracic squeezing to postural drainage improves immediate respiratory outcomes in preterm infants with Respiratory Distress Syndrome (RDS). Over nine months, 14 preterm infants (all born via cesarean section) were randomly assigned to two groups. The control group received standard care with postural drainage, while the experimental group received postural drainage combined with the lung squeezing technique (LST), which applies gentle chest pressure to enhance airflow and mucus clearance. Infants with genetic disorders, congenital anomalies, or on neurotropic drugs were excluded. Oxygen saturation and respiratory distress were measured using the Oxygen Saturation Index and Silverman-Anderson Scale, with data analyzed in SPSS. The study aimed to determine whether combining thoracic squeezing with postural drainage has a greater immediate effect on improving oxygen levels and reducing respiratory distress compared to postural drainage alone.

Eligibility

Min Age: 1 MonthMax Age: 2 Months

Inclusion Criteria3

● Children diagnosed with RDS.
Pre term infants. Birth history with c- section.
No congenital malformation.

Exclusion Criteria4

● Under treatment with neurotropic drugs.
Respiratory and cardiac congenital anamolies.
Genetic disorder.
Interventricular hemorrhage or seizures.

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Interventions

OTHERPOSTURAL DRAINAGE TECHNIQUE

A structured chest physiotherapy protocol will be applied in neonates to enhance airway clearance by targeting specific lung segments. This includes appropriate positioning-supine for upper lobes and side-lying for lower lobes-combined with gentle chest percussion to mobilize secretions while avoiding sensitive areas. Sessions last 4-5 minutes and are repeated every 3 hours, with careful monitoring of vital signs and precautions such as avoiding treatment soon after feeding. Additionally, the thoracic squeezing technique is used to simulate a cough by applying gentle, rhythmic compressions during expiration in a side-lying position. Performed for about 10 minutes on each side after drainage or percussion, it helps move secretions toward central airways, particularly in infants with weak cough reflexes, with continuous monitoring to ensure safety and immediate cessation if distress occurs.