1. What is IT Ratio?

The IT (Inspiratory Time to Total Cycle Time) Ratio is a measurement used in neonatal ventilation to assess the proportion of time spent in inspiration during the total respiratory cycle. It is expressed as a decimal between 0 and 1.

2. How Does the Calculator Work?

The calculator uses the IT Ratio formula:

Where:

• Inspiratory Time — Duration of the inspiratory phase in seconds
• Total Cycle Time — Duration of the entire respiratory cycle (inspiration + expiration) in seconds

Explanation: The ratio helps clinicians assess the balance between inspiration and expiration in mechanical ventilation.

3. Importance of IT Ratio in Neonatal Care

Details: In neonatal ventilation, proper IT ratio is crucial for adequate gas exchange while preventing complications like air trapping and barotrauma. Typical values range from 0.33 to 0.5 in most neonatal ventilation modes.

4. Using the Calculator

Tips: Enter both inspiratory time and total cycle time in seconds. Total cycle time must be greater than or equal to inspiratory time.

5. Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Q1: What is a normal IT ratio for neonates?
A: Typically 0.33 to 0.5, but may vary based on ventilation mode and clinical condition.

Q2: How does IT ratio differ from I:E ratio?
A: IT ratio is the fraction of time spent in inspiration, while I:E ratio compares inspiratory time directly to expiratory time.

Q3: When would you use a higher IT ratio?
A: Higher IT ratios (up to 0.5) may be used in certain conditions like RDS to improve oxygenation, but must be carefully monitored.

Q4: What are risks of incorrect IT ratio?
A: Too high may cause air trapping and barotrauma; too low may result in inadequate ventilation.

Q5: How often should IT ratio be assessed?
A: Should be monitored continuously during mechanical ventilation and reassessed with any ventilator setting changes.