What is one of the essential supplies needed for a preterm birth resuscitation?

Surfactant is a critical supply for resuscitating a preterm infant, particularly because preterm births are often associated with respiratory distress syndrome (RDS). This condition arises from a deficiency of surfactant, a substance that reduces surface tension in the alveoli, preventing their collapse and promoting effective gas exchange.

While endotracheal tubes are important for maintaining airway patency, they need to be appropriately sized for neonates, not standard-sized. Adult-sized oxygen masks would not fit preterm infants and would not be effective for their anatomy and respiratory needs. Intravenous anesthetics are not used in the resuscitation of neonates; instead, the focus is on stabilizing the infant and ensuring they receive adequate oxygenation and ventilation.

Overall, the use of surfactant in the resuscitation of preterm infants addresses one of the fundamental issues they face at birth, thereby improving their chances of survival and reducing complications associated with lung immaturity.