Pediatric Medicine/Resuscitation/Definition of Neonatal Resuscitation

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  • Before a baby is born, the placenta provides oxygen and nutrition to the blood and removes carbon dioxide.
  • After a baby is born, the lungs provide oxygen to the blood and remove carbon dioxide.
    • The transition from using the placenta to using the lungs for gas exchange begins when the umbilical cord is clamped or tied off, and the baby has its first breath.
      • Many babies go through this transition without needing intervention.
      • Some babies need help with establishing their air flow, breathing, or circulation.

The first few moments of a newborn's life can be the most critical. If needed, effective emergency care during this transition can prevent lifelong consequences. Proper resuscitation requires essential equipment and knowledge of necessary protocols before delivery. Prior knowledge of the gestational age of the newborn is helpful in anticipating the need for resuscitation. Low birth weight and premature delivery predispose infants to the need for resuscitative efforts.

Indications Neonate with the following:

   •       Inadequate or ineffective respirations
        •       Inadequate heart rate
        •       Central cyanosis
        •       Other evidence of cardiorespiratory distress