Breathing

Bronchopulmonary dysplasia grade

Grades BPD in a preterm baby (born before 32 weeks) by the breathing support needed at 36 weeks' postmenstrual age (Jensen 2019 definition).

For education. Check against your unit's guidance and a second clinician before use.

Breathing support at 36 weeks' postmenstrual age

None (in air)Nasal cannula at 2 L/min or lessNasal cannula over 2 L/min, or non-invasive positive pressure (CPAP, NIPPV)Invasive mechanical ventilation

Choose the breathing support at 36 weeks' postmenstrual age.

How this is calculated

For babies born before 32 weeks, graded by the mode of breathing support at 36 weeks' postmenstrual age, whatever the oxygen concentration (Jensen 2019).

Sources

Jensen EA, et al. The diagnosis of bronchopulmonary dysplasia in very preterm infants: an evidence-based approach. Am J Respir Crit Care Med 2019;200:751-9.

Checked by NICUlearn, 6 Oct 2026.

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