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

In this scenario, the decision to increase the FiO2 (Fraction of Inspired Oxygen) for a term infant on mechanical ventilation is typically based on an assessment of the infant's oxygenation status as indicated by the blood gas results. If the blood gases show evidence of hypoxemia, increasing the FiO2 is a direct intervention aimed at improving the oxygen delivery to the infant's tissues.

In many cases, when blood gas results indicate low oxygen levels or inadequate oxygenation (commonly signified by low PaO2), the immediate response would be to increase the FiO2 to enhance the amount of oxygen that the infant receives from the mechanical ventilator. This adjustment helps to ensure that the infant can achieve better oxygen saturation levels, which is critical for preventing complications associated with hypoxia.

Other options like increasing the rate, PIP (Peak Inspiratory Pressure), or PEEP (Positive End-Expiratory Pressure) might be relevant depending on specific conditions like hypercapnia or respiratory mechanics, but they do not directly address the primary concern of inadequate oxygenation. While these strategies can improve ventilation or support lung function, the most straightforward approach to correct hypoxemia is to adjust the FiO2.