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A comparative study of the behaviour of the neonate following various forms of maternal intrapartum analgesia and anaesthesia

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Summary

The behaviour of 110 neonates whose mothers had been given a variety of analgesic and anaesthetic agents in labour was examined using a neonatal psychological assessment profile. This quick, easily learnt method uses aspects of Brazelton’s Neonatal Behavioural Assessment Scale (N.B.A.S.), items from the Neurological Assessment Scale of Dubowitz and Dubowitz, and measures of sucking behaviour. Scores were allotted to individual components of the profile and a total provided at the end of examination.

Analysis of means of the 15 scores showed no major differences between Pethidine + Promazine, Entonox, Epi-dural, TENS or TENS Placebo groups. Babies of mothers subjected to emergency Caesarean section however scored consistently poorer.

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Authors and Affiliations

  1. Tcd Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, Rotunda Hospital, Dublin 1

    R. F. Harrison & R. Cullen

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  1. R. F. Harrison
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  2. R. Cullen
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Harrison, R.F., Cullen, R. A comparative study of the behaviour of the neonate following various forms of maternal intrapartum analgesia and anaesthesia. I.J.M.S. 155, 12–18 (1986). https://doi.org/10.1007/BF02939944

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