Abstract

RESUSCITATION OF NEW BORN INFANT

Salma Mirza*

ABSTRACT

Neonatal resuscitation skills are essential for all health care providers who are involved in the delivery of newborns. The transition from fetus to newborn requires intervention by a skilled individual or team in approximately 10% of all deliveries. Birth asphyxia is a serious clinical problem worldwide. The World Health Organization has defined birth asphyxia as “failure to initiate and sustain breathing at birth” and with an Apgar score of <7 at one minute of life. Anticipation, adequate preparation, accurate evaluation and prompt initiation of support are critical for a successful neonatal resuscitation. The ABCs (airway, breathing, circulation) that apply to older children and adults also apply to the neonate. If adequate respirations are not established despite drying, suctioning, and stimulation, additional resuscitative measures should be performed immediately. In fact, if there is any evidence of perinatal depression, vigorous resuscitation should be initiated earlier to counteract any hypoxemia or acidemia that may be present. Four percent of the newly born population requires bag mask ventilation with supplemental oxygen. The establishment of adequate ventilation must be emphasized because only a very small percentage will need chest compressions and medications.[25] Indications for positive pressure ventilation administered either via bag and mask or via endotracheal tube include (1) an insufficient respiratory pattern manifested by gasping and/or apnea, (2) a heart rate that remains below 100 beats/min (bpm) for 30 seconds and (3) persistent central cyanosis despite administration of 100% oxygen.[26]

Keywords: Neonatal; Resuscitation.