Video-Assisted Prenatal Briefing and Resuscitation Support for Neonatal Asphyxia at an Obstetric Clinic

Abstract

 Since 2015, our hospital has provided neonatal medical support via video calls in collaboration with local obstetric clinics. We report a case of neonatal asphyxia in which remote support proved effective. A female neonate was delivered at 38 weeks and 6 days of gestation by emergency cesarean section due to umbilical cord prolapse and fetal distress. Our hospital was contacted before delivery, and a video call was initiated to conduct a pre-delivery briefing and provide real-time resuscitation support. Remote guidance enabled appropriate clinical decision-making and instructions throughout the resuscitation process. Following birth, the neonate developed respiratory distress and was transferred to our hospital. She recovered well and was discharged without any neurological sequelae. Prior to this case, our hospital and the obstetric clinic had conducted regular video conference meetings, which contributed to familiarization with the equipment and strengthened interprofessional collaboration. These factors likely facilitated smooth coordination during the emergency. This case demonstrates the effectiveness of remote neonatal resuscitation support. It also highlights the importance of ongoing inter-facility communication and training, and suggests potential areas for future development in remote neonatal care.