Table 1 NIV and MI-E training performed in outpatient setting before delivery

✓ After a thorough explanation of the principles of NIV to the women, NIV was started during short, repetitive periods during the day

✓ The patient was trained by a pulmonologist or an intensivist experienced in the use of NIV

✓ The interface was either a nasal mask or a facial mask

✓ The pressure setting was progressively increased, taking into account the comfort of the woman, to achieve a minimal tidal volume of 8 ml/kg with a good tolerance during at least 30 min period

✓ After a detailed description of the principles of MI-E, the patient was trained by a physiotherapist to the MI–E using a cough assist device where pressures are generated by a two-stage centrifugal blower

✓ Initial inspiratory and expiratory pressures of MI-E were set at a low level (+ 15/-15 cmH2O, respectively). Subsequently, the positive and negative pressures were progressively increased up to a maximum of 40 cmH2O

✓ During insufflation–exsufflation applications face mask, which was firmly applied on the patient’s face, was used