Neonatal resuscitation Flashcards
What are the two primary causes of fetal depression in canine and feline neonates following dystocia and Cesarean section?
Hypoxia and depression from anesthetic agents given to the dam.
What is the recommended sequence of neonatal resuscitation efforts?
Warmth, airway, breathing, circulation, and drugs.
Why is hypothermia prevention critical during neonatal resuscitation?
Hypothermia can lead to bradycardia, tissue hypoxia, and metabolic acidosis.
what temperature range is considered normal for newborn puppies and kittens?
Normal temperature ranges from 95 to 99°F (35.0–37.2°C).
Why is the historical practice of “swinging” neonates discouraged in airway clearance?
risk of injury, cerebral hemorrhage due to centrifugal forces, and aspiration of stomach contents
At what rate should chest compressions be performed on a neonate with a persistently low heart rate after respiratory resuscitation?
Lateral chest compressions should be performed at a rate of 1–2 beats per second, pausing for respiration
What is the primary physiological reason for bradycardia in stressed neonates, and why is atropine generally ineffective?
Bradycardia is due to myocardial hypoxia rather than vagal stimulation, and atropine has limited effect before a certain age in puppies and kittens + may increase myocardial oxygen demand, exacerbating hypoxia
How can you stimulate respirations in newborns?
By rubbing the genital and umbilical regions as a tactile respiratory reflex occurs in these regions for the
first 3 d of life. Vigorous tactile stimulation of the lumbar area by rubbing the fur backwards will help to elicit crying and further clear the airways
What is the correct pressure range for initial lung expansion attempts in neonatal resuscitation?
20-30 cm of water pressure, increasing if necessary, applied for about 3 seconds
Describe the role of the Renzhong (GV26) acupressure point in stimulating respiration.
It involves inserting a 25-gauge needle into the nasal philtrum at the base of the nostrils and rotating it to stimulate spontaneous breathing
What is the controversy surrounding the use of doxapram in neonatal resuscitation?
Its efficacy is debated, as its effects diminish with brain hypoxia, and it is not included in the most recent human neonatal resuscitation guidelines
When should antibiotics be considered for neonatal puppies and kittens during resuscitation?
If there is a risk of sepsis due to hypoxia-induced bacterial translocation, or if placentitis or pyometra was present during pregnancy
What environmental conditions are recommended to prevent hypothermia in neonatal puppies and kittens?
An environment maintained at approximately 90°F (32.2°C) with 50-60% humidity
What are some of the safe antibiotics for use in neonatal puppies and kittens, and in what situations should they be administered?
Cephalosporins, penicillins, clavulanic acid, macrolides, trimethoprim-sulfonamide, and amikacin (if properly hydrated). Antibiotics should be used for the most severely affected neonates or in cases of documented placentitis or pyometra
What is Apgar score?
The Apgar score is a quick assessment tool used to evaluate the health and viability of newborns immediately after birth. Originally developed for human neonates, it has been adapted for use in veterinary medicine to evaluate puppies and kittens.
The Apgar scoring system typically assesses five key criteria:
Appearance (Color): Pink color indicates good oxygenation, whereas a pale or bluish color suggests poor oxygenation.
Pulse (Heart Rate): A higher heart rate indicates a better score, while a slower rate suggests potential distress or hypoxia.
Grimace Response (Reflex Irritability): This assesses response to stimulation, such as pinching or rubbing the skin. A strong response earns a higher score.
Activity (Muscle Tone): Good muscle tone (e.g., active movement) receives a higher score, while limpness or weak movement scores lower.
Respiration (Breathing): Strong, regular breathing scores higher, while weak or absent breathing scores lower.
Each criterion is given a score from 0 to 2, with a maximum total score of 10. Higher scores indicate a healthier neonate, while lower scores signal a need for intervention, such as warming, resuscitation, or respiratory support.
