Airway/breathing
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Should the baby be intubated before transfer? A lower threshold for intubation should be used than on the neonatal intensive care unit, to minimise the need to intervene in transit. In an infant > 30 weeks gestation, if the vital signs (pulse, blood pressure, respiratory rate, temperature) have been consistently stable in oxygen < 50% and if the Paco2 is normal, it may be acceptable to move the baby without intubation. If the infant is: unstable
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then intubation and respiratory support is highly likely to be required, at least for the duration of the journey. |
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If already intubated, the endotracheal tube (ETT) must be correctly positioned and secure. ETTs must be secured to a high standard, to avoid accidental extubation in transit.
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Adequate respiratory support must be given.
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Surfactant must be administered if indicated.
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Circulation
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Arterial access, if not already established, should be considered in infants who require repeated blood gas analysis or accurate blood pressure measurement. If siting a line will not influence practice before or during the journey, then it may be acceptable to delay this until after the transfer.
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Correct positioning and security of the catheter must be checked.
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Circulation with fluids and/or inotropes should be supported early, as indicated.
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Temperature
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Assess temperature and consider the support required for transfer.
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Use temperature maintenance adjuncts, such as chemical gel mattresses.20,21
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Blood glucose
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Infection
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Parents’ information and wishes
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Information
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