Thursday, December 4, 2008

Neonatal Resuscitation

Following is the algorithm in use for neonatal resuscitation:
Birth
•Clear of meconium?
•Breathing or crying?
•Good muscle tone?
•Colour pink?
•Term gestation?

Yes - Routine care [Provide warmth, Clear airway and dry]
No -

•Provide warmth
•Position, clear airway
•Dry, stimulate, reposition
•Give oxygen
Evaluate respirations, heart rate and colour.

If breathing, HR>100 and Pink, give supportive care.
If there is apnoea or HR<100
•Provide positive pressure ventilation

If ventilating, HR>100 and Pink, give supportive care.
If HR<60:
•Provide positive pressure ventilation
•Administer chest compressions 

If after this HR>60, go back to previous step (provide PPV).
If HR<60, administer epinephrine.