While the majority of new-born infants naturally transition from the foetal to neonatal stage, approximately 20% of them encounter difficulties initiating breathing at birth. In such cases, the clinical team plays a vital role by providing respiratory support, which is fundamental in neonatal resuscitation. Infants born through meconium-stained amniotic fluid, displaying signs of poor muscle tone and insufficient breathing efforts, should promptly receive initial resuscitation steps under the comforting warmth of a radiant warmer. The delivery of oxygen during the stabilisation and resuscitation process holds immense significance. In situations where a new-born fails to spontaneously initiate breathing, the Neonatal team, consisting of proficient experts, employs a range of techniques, utilising a face mask or nasal prong. If these methods prove unsuccessful, mechanical ventilation is administered within the Neonatal Intensive Care Unit (NICU). Our Isolation and Resuscitation rooms and the state of the art equipment is our focus for our campaign this year.

We urgently need funds to continue to provide excellent care in this life saving department to these most vulnerable little patients. The NICU at Laniado has experienced massive growth and development over the past 5 years. Almost 8000 babies are born in Laniado every year, approximately 500 of which require Intensive Care where we treat the smallest babies and those who are often very seriously ill.