Neonatal resuscitation.

Abstract

emergency. Perinatal hypoxia is one of the leading cause of perinatal mortality in developing countries. Birth asphyxia is an important cause of static development and neurological handicaps both in term & preterm Infants. In utero, the placenta serves to transfer nutrition and oxygen from the mother and eliminates fetal waste products. After separation from mother the baby must breathe immediately to safeguard against anoxic damage to brain and other vital organs. In the labor room the newly born baby should be helped to establish independent breathing without delay because within two minutes of tying the cord the arterial oxygen tension falls to 1-2 mm Hg. The way in which an asphyxiated baby is managed at birth determines the immediate morbidity and quality of life among survivors. In order to provide optimal care to mothers during delivery andensure intact survival of new born babies, it is desirable that the delivery complex should be designated as perinatal intensive care unit (PICU) and provided with necessary physical infrastructure, equipment , staff and facilities. The health professionals working in this area should have adequate knowledge and skills to resuscitate a newborn baby and should be able to work smoothly as a team. Conditions demanding resuscitation alert. :-