Question

Choose the appropriate step(s) to prepare for the birth of a newborn <32 weeks gestation

Answer 1

Preparing for the birth of a newborn <32 weeks gestation involves specialized medical interventions and care, including monitoring, administration of corticosteroids, NICU preparation, respiratory support, temperature regulation, and medication administration.

Step-by-step explanation:

Preparing for the birth of a newborn <32 weeks gestation requires specialized medical interventions and care. Here are the appropriate steps to take:

1. Monitor the mother and baby closely during pregnancy, including regular prenatal visits and ultrasounds to assess the baby's growth and development.
2. Administer corticosteroids to the mother before birth to help promote lung maturation in the baby.
3. Prepare the neonatal intensive care unit (NICU) for the baby's arrival, ensuring that advanced medical equipment, specialized staff, and a controlled environment are in place.
4. Provide respiratory support, such as mechanical ventilation or continuous positive airway pressure (CPAP), to assist the baby with breathing.
5. Manage temperature regulation in the baby by using an incubator or radiant warmer to maintain appropriate body temperature.
6. Administer medications, such as surfactant replacement therapy, to help with lung function and reduce the risk of respiratory complications.

Answer 2

When preterm delivery can be anticipated there may be an opportunity for paediatric staff to discuss intrapartum and postnatal care with prospective parents and colleagues from midwifery and obstetrics. Even if detailed discussion is not possible, relevant historical details should be taken to anticipate problems and prepare appropriately for the arrival of the preterm infant.​infant.

Figure 1
Figure 1
The “inverted triangle” shows how commonly certain interventions are needed
Broadly, the level of resuscitation that may be needed is inversely related to the gestation of the preterm infant. Usually, the approach taken in resuscitating preterm infants of > 32 completed weeks' gestation is the same as that taken for term infants. Most need only basic measures such as drying and stimulation.