Apollo Hospitals, in collaboration with the National Neonatology Forum (NNF) and the Indian Academy of Pediatrics (IAP), organized a Neonatal Resuscitation Program (NRP) in Bengaluru to enhance pediatricians’ skills in managing critical newborn emergencies. The training initiative aimed to equip doctors with essential life-saving techniques required during the first few minutes after birth, a crucial period that can determine a newborn’s survival and long-term health.
Focus on the ‘First Golden Minute’ in Newborn Care
Also known as the First Golden Minute Programme, the training emphasized the importance of timely resuscitation to manage birth asphyxia, one of the leading causes of neonatal mortality and long-term neurological complications.
As per the press release, the program brought together pediatricians from across India and focused on strengthening their ability to respond quickly and effectively when newborns fail to breathe or cry immediately after birth.
Inauguration and Expert Leadership
The workshop was inaugurated by Akshay Oleti, CEO – Karnataka, Apollo Hospitals, and coordinated by Dr. Prashanth S Urs, Senior Consultant, Neonatologist and Pediatrician at Apollo Hospitals, Bengaluru.
Importantly, the training followed international protocols established by the American Academy of Pediatrics (AAP) and adapted for India by the National Neonatology Forum and the Indian Academy of Pediatrics, ensuring that participants received globally standardized neonatal resuscitation training.
Addressing the Serious Challenge of Birth Asphyxia
Birth asphyxia occurs when a newborn fails to initiate and sustain breathing immediately after birth. It remains a major contributor to neonatal deaths worldwide.
Globally, birth asphyxia accounts for approximately 24% of neonatal deaths, with a large proportion occurring within the first 24 hours after delivery. In developing countries, the incidence ranges from 4.6 to 26 cases per 1,000 births, while case fatality rates can reach up to 40%.
However, experts emphasize that timely intervention during the first few minutes of life can significantly reduce the risk of death, brain damage, cerebral palsy, and other long-term neurological disorders.
Hands-On Training for Pediatricians
To ensure effective skill development, the workshop adopted a hands-on learning approach. Organizers maintained a low instructor-to-participant ratio of 1:6, allowing personalized guidance and practical training.
During the sessions, pediatricians practiced critical neonatal resuscitation techniques, including airway management, assisted breathing, and emergency response procedures required when a newborn does not breathe spontaneously.
Certification and Standardised Neonatal Care
Participants also underwent pre-training and post-training assessments to evaluate their understanding and practical skills. Those who successfully completed the program received internationally recognized certification, reinforcing standardized neonatal care practices.
This certification ensures that pediatricians attending deliveries are adequately trained to manage newborn emergencies with confidence and accuracy.
Expert Perspective on the Importance of Early Intervention
Commenting on the initiative, Dr. Prashanth S Urs highlighted the importance of prompt medical response during childbirth.
“The first few moments after birth are critical, and timely intervention can significantly improve outcomes for newborns. Through structured, hands-on training, we are ensuring that pediatricians are equipped to respond with confidence and precision. Strengthening these skills is essential to reducing preventable complications and improving newborn survival rates,” he said.
Nationwide Expertise Contributes to Training
The sessions were conducted by certified instructors affiliated with NNF and IAP, with several neonatal care experts traveling from across the country to facilitate the training. Their participation ensured that the program delivered high-quality, standardized clinical instruction aligned with national and global best practices.
Advancing Neonatal Care Through Global Training Programs
Introduced globally in 1995, the Neonatal Resuscitation Program has played a vital role in advancing newborn care worldwide. By training pediatricians and healthcare professionals in life-saving resuscitation techniques, the program ensures that doctors attending deliveries are prepared to manage emergencies during the critical first minutes of life.
Through initiatives like this, Apollo Hospitals continues to strengthen neonatal healthcare training and contribute to improving newborn survival rates in India.