Newborn Care - Neurological problems in newborns

About the Course

Neurological problems in newborns may be caused by a variety of conditions with wide ranging effects. Seizures are relatively common in the neonatal period and are usually a result of significant underlying pathology. The most common cause is hypoxic ischaemic encephalopathy (HIE) as a result of perinatal asphyxia. Perinatal asphyxia accounts for around one third of all newborn deaths and can lead to major neurodevelopmental problems. In this module we will discuss the assessment and management of neonatal seizures, as well as the approach to management and prognosis assessment of perinatal asphyxia.

Learning Objectives

Once you have completed this module, you should be able to:

  • Recognise different presentations of seizures in newborns
  • List possible underlying causes of seizures
  • Manage a newborn with seizures according to MSF protocols
  • Monitor side effects of anti-convulsant medications
  • Discuss the approach to management of a baby with perinatal asphyxia
  • Grade the severity of hypoxic ischaemic encephalopathy using the Sarnat staging and counsel parents regarding the baby’s prognosis.

List of Contents

Theory:

  • Definition and classification of seizures
  • Investigation of seizures
  • Management of seizures
  • Causes of seizures
  • Features of perinatal asphyxia
  • Management of hypoxic ischaemic encephalopathy (HIE)
  • Sarnat staging

Application / 3 case studies

Summary / Learning points /Job aid

ESTIMATED TIME TO COMPLETE THE COURSE

60 minutes

WHO IS THIS COURSE FOR?

The module is intended for nurses, midwives, clinical officers and medical doctors caring for newborns in MSF projects.

HOW TO ENROL

To access this eLearning module, you need first to enrol in the Newborn Care Learning HubInformation on how to access the module is available there.

CERTIFICATION

After completing the module and answering the final quiz with at least 80% correct responses learners are entitled a Tembo completion badge and a certificate.

TRAINING APPROACH

We recommend printing out the job aid and using the neonatal guideline during the module.

RELEASE DATE :  March 1, 2022