Respiratory support attitudes among pediatric intensive care staff for spinal muscular atrophy patients in Saudi Arabia

OBJECTIVES: To explore therapeutic attitude of healthcare providers practicing in pediatric critical care in Saudi Arabia toward patients with Spinal Muscular Atroph (SMA) Type I, and to explore their awareness about the International Consensus statement for SMA care. METHODS: A cross-sectional survey was conducted in April 2015 during 6th Saudi Critical Care Conference, targeting physicians and respiratory therapists practicing in Pediatric Critical Care. RESULTS: Sixty participants accepted to participate in this survey. Out of those who answered the questionnaire, 44 were included in the analysis. Majority (66%) of participants were unaware of the International Consensus guidelines for SMA. Endotracheal intubation was reported as an acceptable intervention in SMA patients with acute respiratory failure by 43% of participants. Similarly, chronic home ventilation was agreed by 41% of participants. CONCLUSION: A nationwide adaptation of the International SMA Consensus guidelines for children with SMA I is recommended, aiming to decrease variability and standardize their management across various healthcare facilities in Saudi Arabia.