Introduction: Most newborns do not require special resuscitation interventions at birth. However, it is estimated that approximately 10 % need some measures for a successful transition, and in 1–3 % of cases, resuscitation procedures are necessary. Major health organizations, such as European Resuscitation Council, develop guidelines that ensure a structured and comprehensive approach to neonatal resuscitation. Protocols based on the latest evidence provide timely and effective responses, high-quality care, and reduce neonatal mortality and morbidity. Purpose: The aim is to explore whether neonatal resuscitation guidelines are consistently followed in the fields of midwifery, neonatology, and obstetrics in Slovenia, and whether updates to these guidelines are, in the opinion of department heads, appropriately implemented. Methods: A descriptive and causal non-experimental research method was used. In the theoretical part, a qualitative literature review was conducted, searching for professional and scientific literature in databases such as PubMed, Cochrane Library, Google Scholar, ScienceDirect, and Elsevier. The second part employed a quantitative empirical research method based on data collection through a survey questionnaire. The questionnaire was designed using the open-source tool 1KA (EnKlikAnketa). The purposive sample included three professional staff members from each Slovenian maternity hospital: the head midwife of the delivery unit, the head of the delivery unit (a specialist in gynecology and obstetrics), and the head of neonatal care (a neonatologist or, where unavailable, a pediatrician or an anesthesiologist). All fourteen Slovenian maternity hospitals were included in the study. Results: A total of 43 surveys were completed, with 26 fully filled out. Most maternity hospitals adhere to neonatal resuscitation guidelines. Minor deviations were observed in thermal regulation management, resuscitation algorithms, and vascular access. Discussion and Conclusion: A standardized neonatal resuscitation practice enables healthcare professionals to work in a coordinated and goal-oriented manner during critical moments. Slovenian maternity hospitals generally follow the guidelines, but challenges remain in maintaining optimal temperature for preterm infants and using heated and humidified gases. Chest compressions are mostly performed in a 3:1 ratio, but the timing often does not align with recommendations. The umbilical venous catheter remains the preferred vascular access method. The intraosseous route is a less common choice in clinical practice. There is an emphasized need for continuous training and practice improvement. Investing in innovations and adapting to the latest guidelines can contribute to better long-term outcomes for newborns.
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