Related Experiment Video
Updated: Aug 24, 2026

The Perinatal Asphyxiated Lamb Model: A Model for Newborn Resuscitation
Published on: August 15, 2018
Low Apgar scores and the definition of birth asphyxia
Steven R Leuthner1, Utpala G Das
1Division of Neonatology, Medical College of Wisconsin, Children's Hospital of Wisconsin, Milwaukee, WI 53226, USA. leuthner@mcw.edu
Nonreassuring fetal heart rate patterns, prolonged labor, meconium-stained fluid, a low 1-minute Apgar score, and mild to moderate acidemia have no predictive value for long-term neurologic injury without signs of encephalopathy and seizures. It is important to provide proper resuscitation, support infants, and allow time for evaluation. We have time and the tools to provide fairly predictive information to the families. It is important to use this knowledge wisely in communicating honestly with families, because difficult decisions undoubtedly will arise.
Nonreassuring fetal heart rate patterns, prolonged labor, meconium-stained fluid, a low 1-minute Apgar score, and mild to moderate acidemia have no predictive value for long-term neurologic injury without signs of encephalopathy and seizures. It is important to provide proper resuscitation, support infants, and allow time for evaluation. We have time and the tools to provide fairly predictive information to the families. It is important to use this knowledge wisely in communicating honestly with families, because difficult decisions undoubtedly will arise.
Related Concept Videos
Assessment of Airway, Skin Color, and Use of Accessory Muscles
Introduction
The initial evaluation of a patient's respiratory system...
Acute Respiratory Failure-IV
Physical Assessment of the Respiratory Tract II: Inspection
Chest Configuration
The chest configuration can...
Acute Respiratory Failure-II
The underlying physiological abnormalities that contribute to hypoxemic respiratory failure include:
Assessment of Ventilation I: Respiratory Rate
A Ventilation assessment is critical for monitoring a patient's health status. Respiration, one of the most accessible vital signs, provides insights into the function of numerous body systems and can indicate serious health issues, such as brainstem injuries from head trauma.
Critical Guidelines for Assessing Ventilation:
Acute Respiratory Failure-I
Definition: It is defined by specific criteria based on blood gas measurements. Hypoxemia happens when the partial pressure of oxygen (PaO2) falls below 60 mmHg. At the same time,...

