The five initial steps of the Neonatal Resuscitation Program (NRP) are crucial actions taken within the first 30 seconds of an infant's life to support their transition to extrauterine life.
Understanding the Initial Steps of Neonatal Resuscitation Program (NRP)
The initial steps of NRP are performed rapidly, typically within the first 30 seconds after birth. These foundational interventions are designed to establish effective breathing and circulation in a newborn who may be struggling to adapt to life outside the womb. They prioritize warmth, airway patency, and respiratory effort.
Here are the 5 initial steps:
| Step | Description of Action |
|---|---|
| 1 | Provide Warmth: Place the infant under a radiant heat source. |
| 2 | Position Head: Position the infant's head in the "sniffing" position. |
| 3 | Clear Airway: Clear the airway as necessary, using a bulb syringe or suction catheter. |
| 4 | Dry Infant: Dry the infant thoroughly. |
| 5 | Stimulate Breathing: Stimulate breathing. |
These steps are a systematic approach to quickly assess and address the immediate needs of a newborn, aiming to promote spontaneous breathing and maintain adequate body temperature.
