Consequences of Perinatal Asphyxia

Perinatal asphyxia occurs in 3–9 of every 1,000 births. The risk for perinatal asphyxia is present in every pregnancy. When asphyxia is diagnosed in a newborn, the effects on the infant are potentially life-threatening. Management of the asphyxia focuses on initial stabilization and support based on identified organ system dysfunction as well as support for the infant’s family. Long-term outcome for the asphyxiated infant is related to the degree, duration, and resolution of organ system dysfunction