Neonatal Assessment and Resuscitation
Neonatal Assessment and Resuscitation Last updated: 09 /07/2024 Key Points Neonatal assessment is performed within 24 hours of birth to determine an infant’s well-being and the need for intervention. The Neonatal Resuscitation Program (NRP) was developed with a focus on effective ventilation to adequately resuscitate a newborn. Ventilation of the newborn’s lungs is the single most important and effective step in neonatal resuscitation, and an increase in heart rate is the most important indicator that effective ventilation is occurring. Positive pressure ventilation (PPV) at a rate of 40-60 inflations per minute is the primary method for providing support for newborns who are apneic, bradycardic, or demonstrate inadequate respiratory effort. Introduction All newborns require an exam within the first 24 hours of birth to assess their general well-being and any concerns that may require intervention. The neonatal assessment begins with a head-to-toe exam, starting with the ass...