Neonatal resuscitation: 'room side to motherside'.

Delayed clamping of the neonatal umbilical cord is considered beneficial to the transition to extrauterine life in a term, uncomplicated birth. However, some neonates require resuscitation and the ability to perform this is a fundamental aspect of midwifery practice. The decision to clamp and cut th...

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Bibliographic Details
Published in:British Journal of Midwifery Vol. 27; no. 11; pp. 716 - 729
Main Authors: Stamoulos, Suzanne, Lavelle, Rachel
Format: algorithm pictorial practice guidelines tables/charts Journal Article
Published: Mark Allen Holdings Limited Nov2019
Online Access:View this record in EBSCOhost
Description
Summary:Delayed clamping of the neonatal umbilical cord is considered beneficial to the transition to extrauterine life in a term, uncomplicated birth. However, some neonates require resuscitation and the ability to perform this is a fundamental aspect of midwifery practice. The decision to clamp and cut the umbilical cord often precludes any resuscitative attempt, but the reasoning for this action is unclear. This article explores the purpose and place of leaving the umbilical cord intact during neonatal resuscitation. It considers the physiological basis for delaying cord clamping as well as the psychological benefits to baby, mother and family of leaving the cord intact until resuscitation is complete.