79Non-pharmacological methods of pain relief There are a number of non-pharmacological forms of pain relief and coping strategies that can be used during labour. Those that are supported by the…

74Intravenous administration of drugs Administration of intravenous medication can be defined as the process within which a solution or medication is introduced, using a vein, into the circulatory system. This…

81Anti-D: preventing rhesus isoimmunisation Midwives have a key role in preventing rhesus isoimmunisation. This occurs when a rhesus-negative mother develops antibodies, which may subsequently cause destruction of the red blood…

77Immunisation The value of vaccination in preventing ill health globally is widely acknowledged (Figure 77.1). The vaccination schedule in the UK now includes vaccines to protect against over 20 infections…

72Drug administration, handling and storage The aim here is to provide an opportunity to review and revisit the main principles of drug administration and consider the midwife’s role in relation…

66Hypothermia Thermoregulation is a critical physiologic function that is closely related to the transition and survival of the infant. An understanding of transitional events and the physiological adaptations that neonates…

64Neonatal jaundice Jaundice occurs when bilirubin accumulates in the extravascular fatty tissues (skin and brain). Jaundice in the newborn is common, occurring in over two-thirds of term infants and even…

65Hypoglycaemia Hypoglycaemia in the newborn occurs when normal metabolic adaptation does not occur in the first few hours after birth. Immediately after birth, newborns experience a transient drop in blood…