Simple methods to improve compliance with DCC for babies <34 weeks’ gestation: a QI project

Delayed cord clamping (DCC) is an effective perinatal optimisation intervention that is associated with improved outcomes in preterm infants. In this article, we focus on providing simple methods that are easy to implement on any neonatal unit. Data show that DCC rates can be improved without substantial investment in expensive equipment required for resuscitation, with an intact umbilical cord.

Moustafa Eldalal
Paediatric Senior Clinical Fellow
moustafa_badreldin@outlook.com

Siddhartha Paliwal
Paediatric Consultant and Neonatal Lead

Queen Elizabeth Hospital, Lewisham and Greenwich NHS Trust, London

Eldalal M., Paliwal S. Simple methods to improve compliance with DCC for babies <34 weeks’ gestation: a QI project. Infant 2024; 20(3): 80-83.

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Keywords

delayed cord clamping; deferred cord clamping; neonate; resuscitation; perinatal optimisation; DCC

Key points

Working closely with the maternity team is key to improving perinatal optimisation outcomes.
Rates of DCC can be improved in neonatal units, with simple changes, without the need for expensive equipment meant for resuscitation with intact cord.
Not all babies presumed born in poor condition will need active resuscitation and these can be offered deferred cord clamping by simply supporting their transition.

Also published in Infant:

VOLUME 19 ISSUE 5/NOVEMBER 2023

Achieving oxygen saturation targets in preterm infants at birth: does using an SpO₂ target range help?

Neonatal resuscitation guidelines vary in their recommendations for oxygen saturation (SpO₂) targets – some use a single SpO₂ target, others use a target range. We conducted a prospective observational study collecting SpO₂ data on preterm infants born at <34 weeks’ gestation. The objective of our study was to determine if using a range, rather than a single SpO₂ target, would be more achievable during preterm infant resuscitation