Neonatal resuscitation

Abstract

A variety of common situations result in asphyxia of the newborn. The infant may be born in secondary or terminal asphyxia. The infant at greatest risk of neurologic sequelae is the low birth weight infant with a low five-minute Apgar score. Personnel must be trained and the delivery room must be properly equipped for successful resuscitation. For example, a radiant warmer is essential. Meconiumstained infants require special care. Meconium must be removed from the airway. The list of postasphyxial complications is formidable.