Face Mask vs Laryngeal Mask in Neonatal Resuscitation

Maintaining airways and ensuring effective ventilation are the primary goals in the neonatal resuscitation algorithm.To achieve it, there are several devices, more or less invasive, such as a face mask, laryngeal Mask or tracheal tube.Among these, Laryngeal Mask can have significant advantages, including ease of use and speed of application even if used by inexperienced health personnel after a short training program.

The protocol involves the use of a neonatal manikin, which is already in the use at our simulation center. Ventilation of the manikin will be conducted using two possible masks: a face mask and a laryngeal mask. Before the simulations begin, each participant will receive a brief introduction on the technical characteristics of the manikin and how to use the two masks. A stopwatch will be used to record the time required to achieve effective ventilation, defined by the expansion of one-third of the newborn manikin's rib cage. Consideration will also be given to whether corrective maneuvers will need to be performed during the use of each mask and the timing with which these maneuvers will be applied.

Finally, a pseudonymous questionnaire will be administered to participants to assess their perceptions of the ease of use of each mask.

Inclusion criteria

• Healthcare Workers (physicians, nurses, and midwives) of the Neonatal Unit and Delivery Room of Fondazione Policlinico Gemelli Hospital IRCCS Rome
• Signature of an informed consent

Exclusion criteria

• Healthcare Workers (physicians, nurses, and midwives) NOT of the Neonatal Unit and Delivery Room of Fondazione Policlinico Gemelli Hospital IRCCS Rome
• Failure to sign up for informed consent