Neonatal Transport: Before and after Surgery

Abstract

The transport of a sick neonate can be safely achieved provided adequate resuscitation and stabilization is carried out at the referral centre and are continued during the transport process. It is the responsibility of the physician and nursing staff to allay anxiety and fear of parents by addressing their queries; and simultaneously make necessary arrangements for transport of new born. Neonatal transport system ensures a safe and effective transfer of the sick neonate from the place of birth or diagnosis to a tertiary care centre for the definitive management. The value of various support services (pediatric anesthetist, pediatric radiologist, pediatric surgeon, nursing staff, pathologist and ancillary services) could not be underestimated in these tertiary centers. It has been shown that critically ill neonate can be effectively transported over long distances provided some essential criteria are fulfilled. The ideal transport systems are mobile extensions of tertiary care resources and delivery of highest quality of critical care during transport. The burden of such transport depends upon both the referring physician and tertiary care center.