Resuscitation of the newborn

Most newborns are born vigorous and do not require resuscitation. However, the World Health Organisation has estimated that 10% of all newborn infants need some intervention at birth and approximately 0.5% will require cardiopulmonary resuscitation. Frequently, the need for resuscitation may be anticipated based on maternal and obstetric history, but this is not always the case and therefore anyone involved in delivery of newborn infants should be trained in resuscitation.