Post-Resuscitation Care and NICU Stabilization Flashcards

After successful resuscitation, which vital sign parameter requires the closest monitoring in the immediate post-resuscitation period?

Answer: Heart rate and SpO₂

Heart rate and oxygen saturation are the primary indicators of ongoing cardiorespiratory stability after neonatal resuscitation.

What blood glucose level requires treatment in a post-resuscitation neonate?

Answer: Below 40–45 mg/dL

Hypoglycemia (blood glucose below 40–45 mg/dL) after resuscitation requires treatment because the recovering brain is highly sensitive to low glucose.

What is the risk of administering high-concentration oxygen for prolonged periods to a recovering neonate?

Answer: Oxidative stress, free radical injury, and retinopathy of prematurity

Prolonged hyperoxia generates reactive oxygen species that damage the brain, lungs, eyes, and other organs in neonates.

Which complication of birth asphyxia affects multiple organ systems after initial resuscitation?

Answer: Hypoxic-ischemic encephalopathy (HIE) — brain, kidney, heart, liver, and gut injury

HIE from birth asphyxia is a multisystem disorder; the brain suffers the most but kidneys, heart, liver, and intestines are also commonly injured.

What is the role of continuous positive airway pressure (CPAP) in post-resuscitation management of preterm infants?

Answer: Supports lung recruitment and reduces need for intubation in spontaneously breathing preterm infants

CPAP maintains positive airway pressure during spontaneous breathing, recruits alveoli, and reduces atelectasis in preterm infants after stabilization.

What is the purpose of a post-resuscitation blood gas in a newborn who required PPV or compressions?

Answer: To assess acid-base status, oxygenation, and ventilation adequacy

A blood gas reveals the degree of acidosis, hypoxia, and CO₂ retention, guiding ongoing ventilatory and hemodynamic management.