Final answer:
Patients, especially premature infants with RDS, may require only ventilations without compressions. Respiratory support is provided through a ventilator or CPAP, and the administration of pulmonary surfactant greatly improves survival rates.
Step-by-step explanation:
Yes, there would be times when a patient needs only ventilations and not compressions. This scenario is particularly common in neonatal care, such as in the treatment of Respiratory Distress Syndrome (RDS) in premature infants. At delivery, if the infant does not breathe independently, resuscitation and intubation may be necessary.
Subsequent care often involves placing the infant on a ventilator to assist with breathing until the lungs have developed sufficiently to support spontaneous breathing. If spontaneous breathing occurs, Nasal Continuous Positive Airway Pressure (CPAP) can be used.
Additionally, the administration of pulmonary surfactant has significantly reduced mortality rates associated with RDS by as much as 50 percent. Supportive therapies such as temperature regulation, nutrition, and antibiotics may also be administered to support the overall health and development of the premature infant.