Structured Approach to Initial Newborn Support: Head Positioning – Open Airway

Mask inflation will not work unless the airway is open.

The prominence of the newborn occiput may cause the neck to flex when the newborn is placed on its back therefore support is required to maintain the head in a neutral position.

A small (approx 2cm thick) pad (nappy/ towel/ eg.) can be placed underneath the baby’s shoulders to help maintain a neutral head position.

In a baby trying to breathe and the heart rate is adequate then the techniques mentioned may be enough to help; however if the baby is NOT breathing then the baby will need help with lung aeration to survive.

Preparing for further newborn support

A newborn with poor tone may require a jaw thrust to support an open airway

If the newborn is attempting to breath and the heart rate is sufficient then this might be enough to support the newborn.

If the newborn is not breathing then additional help will be required such as LUNG INFLATION

Jaw Thrust