ObjectiveTo analyze the application and efficacy of continuous positive airway pressure (CPAP) as an initial support measure for respiratory diseases in premature infants. MethodsWe retrospectively studied the clinical data of 160 premature infants hospitalized in the Neonatal Intensive Care Unit from January to December 2014. These infants accepted CPAP as the initial respiratory support. ResultsThe average birth weight and the average gestational age of the 160 premature infants were (1 581±440) g and (31.6±1.9) weeks, respectively. The main diagnosis of the primary diseases in these infants included neonatal pneumonia (81.3%), neonatal respiratory distress syndrome (57.5%), neonatal apnea (53.8%) and neonatal asphyxia (22.5%). The CPAP success rate in those infants whose birth weight was less than 1 000 g was significantly lower than those whose birth weight was equal or greater than 1 000 g (χ2=4.882, P=0.027). The perinatal period analysis showed that premature rupture of membranes, intrauterine fetal distress and maternal pregnancy complications were factors correlating with the effect of CPAP. CPAP treatment analysis showed that early application of CPAP within 24 hours after birth had a success rate of 82.4% (108/131), and initial inhaled oxygen concentration and oxygen pressure were the primary factors affecting CPAP efficacy. ConclusionApplication of CPAP is effective in respiratory support for premature infants and has a high success rate. Early application can reduce the use of mechanical ventilation and intubation. Regulating appropriate parameters helps raise the efficacy of CPAP therapy. Clinically, the standardized application of CPAP and monitoring the failure of CPAP are important for the improvement of the treatment efficacy.