CPAP or continuous positive airway pressure. This is air or oxygen delivered under pressure through little tubes into the baby's nose. If the apnea is severe, the baby may need a few breaths from the ventilator every minute. These might be given at regular intervals or only if apnea occurs. An alarm will sound if there is no breath for a set number of seconds.
False alarms occur often.
The nurse may stimulate your baby if your baby needs a reminder to breathe. If there is a change in color, the nurse may give your baby extra oxygen. Some babies are candidates for home apnea monitoring. Apnea of prematurity is a result of immaturity. Once a baby matures and the apnea resolves, it will not return.