For a term infant on mechanical ventilation with specific blood gas results, what should the neonatal specialist increase?

In the context of a term infant on mechanical ventilation, an increase in FiO2 (fraction of inspired oxygen) is appropriate when the infant is showing signs of hypoxemia or inadequate oxygenation based on blood gas results. When a blood gas analysis reveals low oxygen levels, it indicates that the infant's lungs are not providing enough oxygen to the bloodstream, which can happen due to a variety of respiratory issues, such as pneumonia, meconium aspiration, or other pulmonary conditions.

Increasing FiO2 enhances the amount of oxygen available for the infant to breathe, improving oxygen saturation and overall respiratory status. It is crucial in managing conditions that compromise oxygen exchange and prevent detrimental consequences like organ dysfunction from hypoxia.

While it could be tempting to consider other adjustments, such as increasing the rate, PIP (peak inspiratory pressure), or PEEP (positive end-expiratory pressure), these changes target different issues. For instance, increasing rate may assist with ventilation and carbon dioxide removal, while PIP adjustments could help improve lung expansion and clearing secretions. PEEP is useful for improving oxygenation by preventing alveolar collapse, particularly in cases of atelectasis. However, in direct response to low oxygen levels, adjusting FiO2 is the most effective