Neonatal resuscitation in the ward: The role of nurses

Cardiopulmonary resuscitation (CPR) is necessary in about 1-2% of all newly born infants in their first minutes of life. However, CPR may also be needed in newborns beyond the time of birth, particularly in high risk categories of infants admitted in the NICU or in other less specialised units. In all these scenarios, the role of nurses is essential for several aspects, including early recognition of a deteriorating infant, with the aim to prevent cardiac arrest, as well as the starting of immediate basic life support manoeuvres at the bedside, whenever needed. Furthermore, nurses have a special part in family care during cardiopulmonary resuscitation.