Perinatal Physiology and Principles of Neonatal Resuscitation

Occasionally, deliveries occur in extramural settings or in the ED. These newborn infants are often brought to the emergency physician for initial stabilization. Rapid decision making based on periodic evaluation of heart rate, respiration, and color will determine need for and appropriate steps of resuscitation. Ventilation of the lungs is the key and improvement in heart rate is the best sign of successful neonatal resuscitation. Emergency physicians should be familiar with the principles and basics of neonatal resuscitation and maintain these skills with frequent mock codes.