Face mask respiratory support for preterm infants: Takes their breath away?

Descriptions of the revival of apparently lifeless newborn babies pre-date Christian times.1 After some curious diversions – electrocution, rectal insufflation of tobacco smoke, alternate immersion in hot and cold water– breathing support became the mainstay of treatment in the last century. In the 1970’s, a pattern of resuscitating babies emerged based on studies of acutely and profoundly asphyxiated term Rhesus monkeys.2 Courses teaching neonatal resuscitation were developed in the 1980s.3,4 They recommended assessing babies’ breathing and heart rate, and giving positive pressure ventilation (PPV) by face mask to those judged to be in poor condition.
Source: Resuscitation - Category: Emergency Medicine Authors: Tags: Editorial Source Type: research