The physiologic effects of air transport on the neonate

As a member of a neonatal air transport team, whether fixed-wing or rotary-wing, you must have a basic understanding of flight physiology. The negative effects of altitude on the human body can be very detrimental, if not fatal, for the compromised neonate. This article looks at the physiologic stressors of air transport such as hypoxia and gas expansion. It also discusses environmental stressors such as noise, vibration, motion, temperature, and humidity. The key to successful neonatal air transport is the transport team knowing what physiologic changes to expect, properly assessing the infant, preventing stressors if able, and properly intervening as necessary.