Care of the Newborn

Question 1

Care of the Newborn

Answer 1

• 90% transition in a matter of seconds to normal life.
• 100ml fluid in airway/lungs; removed during birth process and initial cry.
• SKIN-TO-SKIN; warms baby and helps regular HR BG & RR
• Whilst cord still pulsating, baby still receiving oxygenated blood.
• Look up APGAR on-scene.

Question 2

Oxygen Saturations

Answer 2

Place on the baby’s right hand to ensure a pre-ductal reading.

• Measure arterial O2 in blood before it reaches aorta.
• Initially lower as birth hypoxic event…
• Most babies tolerate well.
• BUT premature babies may experience difficulty and may require additional support.

Babies normally blue at birth peripherally & centrally pink (may last several hours).

2 minutes = 60%
5 minutes = 85%
10 minutes = 90%

Question 3

Normal Newborn RR and HR

Answer 3

110-160bpm HR.
30-40 breaths

Question 4

Temperature

Answer 4

Newborn temperature should ideally be taking at axilla.

Use heated mattress if required.

Question 5

Blood Glucose

Answer 5

Newborns normally have low BG, BG not routinely needed

2-3 hours age = under 2mmol

do a BG if they need resuscitation, hypo may exist if baby is left to cool down as it will metabolise brown fat stores

Question 6

Rapid Birth

Answer 6

May cause facial congestion and swollen lips

Petechial rash may be over the face

May also cause cord to snap.