Transport protocol for transfer of a neonate
Importance of standard transport protocol for transfer of a neonate from a primary care center to a referral center. Treatment of the sick neonate in specialized neonatal intensive care units has been associated with decrease in mortality and morbidity. Organized emergency neonatal transport systems developed and became an important component in the regionalization of perinatal care [1-4]. In utero transfer is the safest transfer but unfortunately, preterm delivery, perinatal illness and congenital malformations cannot always be anticipated, resulting in a continued need for transfer of babies after delivery [5]. These babies are often critically ill, and the outcome is partly dependent on the effectiveness of the transport system [6]. Facilities for neonatal transport in India are dismal. Most neonates are transported without any pre-transport stabilization or care during transport. Any available vehicle is used which often takes long hours to reach. With less experienced staff, the