Implementing Proactive Care for Infants Born at the Cusp of Viability

Coordinated, anticipatory management improved outcomes for neonates born at 23 weeks' gestation, but long-term consequences still loom for most survivors.

The decision to treat infants born at 23 weeks' gestation is controversial. In a retrospective, single-institution cohort study, investigators evaluated a proactive interdisciplinary approach to the clinical management of such neonates. This approach included use of antenatal corticosteroids, cesarean delivery, neonatal resuscitation, and intensive care. Major morbidities prior to discharge as well as neurodevelopmental outcomes at 18 to 22 months were examined.

Among 101 neonates receiving proactive care, 59% survived to hospital discharge. All received at least one dose of antenatal steroids. Among infants surviving to discharge, 62% had at least one major morbidity, and all had bronchopulmonary dysplasia. An attending neonatologist was pr…

Reviewing Author

Diane J. Angelini, EdD, CNM, FACNM, FAAN, NEA-BC

Disclosures

RoyaltiesOB Triage: Emergency Care Protocols (Springer Publications)

Editorial boardsJournal of Perinatal and Neonatal Nursing

Diane J. Angelini, EdD, CNM, FACNM, FAAN, NEA-BC

Disclosures

RoyaltiesOB Triage: Emergency Care Protocols (Springer Publications)

Editorial boardsJournal of Perinatal and Neonatal Nursing

Implementing Proactive Care for Infants Born at the Cusp of Viability

Topics

Reviewing Author