Comments Off on 10 Tips to Help a Newborn Baby Who Just Gave Birth and Is Not Breathing
When a newborn baby doesn’t start breathing immediately after birth, it’s a medical emergency. Acting swiftly and correctly can save their life. Here are 10 essential tips to follow:
- Stay Calm and Assess the Situation
- Remain composed. Look for signs of life, such as chest movement, crying, or any sound. A calm approach ensures effective actions.
- Clear the Airway
- Use a clean cloth or a bulb syringe to gently suction mucus, amniotic fluid, or debris from the baby’s mouth and nose.
- Position the Baby Properly
- Place the baby on their back on a flat surface. Tilt the head slightly back to open the airway but do not overextend the neck.
- Dry and Stimulate the Baby
- Use a clean towel to dry the baby and gently rub their back or soles of their feet. This can encourage spontaneous breathing.
- Check for a Heartbeat
- Place your fingers lightly on the baby’s chest or the umbilical cord to feel for a heartbeat.
- Start Rescue Breaths
- If there’s no breathing, cover the baby’s nose and mouth with your mouth. Give two gentle breaths, just enough to see the chest rise.
- Perform Chest Compressions if Necessary
- If there’s no heartbeat or it’s very weak, perform chest compressions. Use two fingers to compress the chest just below the nipple line, about 1.5 inches deep.
- Alternate Breaths and Compressions
- Combine 30 chest compressions with two rescue breaths. Continue until the baby starts breathing or medical help arrives.
- Call for Emergency Assistance Immediately
- Have someone call emergency services as soon as possible to provide professional support.
- Keep the Baby Warm
- Wrap the baby in a dry, warm blanket to maintain their body temperature while continuing resuscitation efforts.
Swift action and proper care are critical to helping a newborn who isn’t breathing. If possible, seek professional neonatal resuscitation training to be better prepared for such emergencies.
