A pattern of breathing that is irregular. Due to a preemie’s immature central nervous system, they tend to take some deep breaths, then pause for 5-10 seconds before they take another breath.
abnormal respiration in which periods of shallow and deep breathing alternate
Characterized by repetitive short apneic pauses, common in premature infants.
Three or more apneic pauses of 3 or more seconds (but less than 20 seconds) in duration within periods of normal respiration of 20 seconds or less
Periodic Breathing is characterized by recurring short apneic pauses, which is common in premature infants.