Respiratory and Cardiovascular Support in the Delivery Room

Abstract

Aeration of the lungs following delivery is the key to successful transition to newborn life. Clearance of lung fluid enables the onset of gas exchange and initiates the cardiovascular changes, leading to an increase in pulmonary blood flow and maintenance of systemic cardiac output. Most infants make the transition without interventions but up to 10% require some assistance. In some cases, the need for resuscitation may be anticipated, but others with no risk factors require help. Hence, trained personnel must be available at every delivery to assess the newborn and initiate resuscitation when necessary. Nonvigorous and preterm newborns should be taken to a radiant warmer for assessment. Ca..