Asphyxia Neonatorum

Asphyxia neonatorum, the failure to establish spontaneous respiration at birth, is a high-stakes topic in tertiary-level midwifery, neonatal nursing, and medical programs in Zambia. This module covers the Apgar scoring system, classification (livida vs. palida), pathophysiology of hypoxia and acidosis, and systematic neonatal resuscitation following the ABCDE approach. Students learn to manage maternal and fetal risk factors, utilize resuscitation equipment, and provide post-resuscitative care. For Zambian diploma and degree students, excellence in this subject is non-negotiable for exam success and for performing effectively in delivery rooms and neonatal units, directly impacting perinatal outcomes and aligning with national goals to reduce neonatal mortality.