Oxygen (Birth up to 2 months)

Oxygen

• Give oxygen to all young infants with:
  • Convulsions
  • Apnoea or breathing < 30 minute
  • Fast breathing, severe chest indrawing, nasal flaring or grunting
• Use nasal prongs or a nasal cannula

Nasal prongs

• Place the prongs just below the baby’s nostrils. Use 1mm prongs for small babies and 2mm prongs for term babies
• Secure the prongs with tape
• Oxygen should flow at one litre per minute 

Nasal cannula

• This method delivers a higher concentration of oxygen
• Insert a FG5 or FG6 nasogastric tube 2 cm into the nostril
• Secure with tape
• Turn on oxygen to flow of half a litre per minute

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Integrated Management of Childhood Illness 2022; Young Infant (Birth up to 2 months); Treat the Young Infant: Give Oxygen

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Last checked for updates: June 2023