Ventilation practices and preparedness of healthcare providers in term newborn resuscitation: A comprehensive survey study in Austrian hospitals

Aim of the study

Although neonatal resuscitation is rare, and high-risk births usually occur in specialised centres, unexpected resuscitation measures may be necessary during births that are initially considered low-risk. This survey assessed the practices of healthcare providers in Austrian hospitals for postnatal resuscitation and evaluated their self-assessed airway management skills for newborns.

Methods

An online survey was distributed to all staff members responsible for the postnatal care of newborns in hospitals with obstetrics in Austria through the heads of departments (paediatrics, obstetrics, and anaesthesiology). The results are presented in terms of hospital care level and birth volume.

Results

In total, 79.5 % of all hospitals with maternity units in Austria participated in the survey. Preparedness was found to be improved with the level of care provided by the hospital. Overall, 50.4 % of the respondents did not feel adequately prepared for neonatal emergencies, and 35.0 % rated their face mask ventilation skills as insufficient. According to the survey results in 61.3 % of included hospitals or 52.5 % of births in Austria, safe endotracheal intubation cannot be provided.

Conclusion

A significant proportion of healthcare workers in Austria responsible for postnatal newborn care do not feel adequately prepared for newborn emergencies.