Essential Newborn and Young Infant Equipment (Chapter 21)

Learning Objectives

After completion of this chapter the participant should be able to:

This equipment should be available in an area in the delivery suite and neonatal care unit for facilitating immediate care of the newborn and ongoing emergency care. This is essential for all health facilities where newborns are cared for. The equipment needs to be checked regularly and supplies replaced after they are used.

Equipment Supplies
  • Cotton swabs
  • DRY warm cloths x2 (absorbent)
  • Extension tubing to deliver fluid and giving sets
  • Feeding cups
  • Hat
  • Identification bands
  • IV cannulae (26G)
  • Lancets
  • Litmus paper
  • Mattresses
  • Nasal catheters / prongs
  • Needles
  • Oxygen tubin
  • Penguin sucker
  • Sterile and examination gloves
  • Sterile blade/scissors
  • Sterile cord ties
  • Suction catheters (10F, 12F)
  • Feeding tubes (6F, 8F)
  • Syringes (2, 5, 10, 20, 50ml)
  • Tape

Drugs Intravenous Fluids
  • Ringers Lactate
  • Normal Saline
  • 50% glucose
  • 10% glucose

Key Facts for Providers:
Essential Newborn and Young Infant Equipment and Medication
  • Health workers should be aware of the essential equipment needed to run a new born or young infant unit.
  • The health workers are responsible for maintaining and cleaning these items on the ward to optimise lifespan and prevent cross infections.
  • Stock levels and functionality should be monitored and appropriate action taken to ensure their availability.