Proficiency of residents and fellows in performing neonatal intubation

To determine success rate and time taken for intubation by pediatric residents/fellows.

Prospective observational study among neonates requiring endotracheal intubation.

212 attempts and 118 successful intubations were recorded in 153 videos. An average of 1.93 attempts per successful intubation was observed. Success rate at first attempt and mean time taken by first year, second year, third year residents and fellows were 26% and 51.9; 79% and 39.8; 69% and 40.1; and 67% and 31.5 seconds, respectively. Complications were noted in 77 (36%) attempts. 44 (21%) intubations were performed within 30 seconds. Increase in complications was noted with increase in attempt time beyond 40 seconds.

Skill improved from first year to second year. Most intubations exceeded 30 second time limit. There is a need to improve training methodology to ensure intubation time by health personnel does not exceed the expected time limit.