Newborn transport

Newborn transport[1] is used to move premature and other sick infants from one hospital to another, such as a medical facility that has a neonatal intensive care unit and other services.

Infant transport systems commonly weigh over 100 kg and present a challenge to vehicle operators in terms of weight, manual handling, crashworthiness and power consumption.

[3] DeLee showed an intuitive interest in the care of preterm infants, recognising the necessity of a thermo-regulated environment during their transfer.

In 1968, in the United Kingdom, neonatologist Herbert Barrie introduced the country’s first dedicated neonatal ambulance.

Team composition varies from one country to another, with options including various two or three person combinations of nurse, doctor and respiratory therapist.

Integrated neonatal life support system
The United Kingdom's first neonatal transport ambulance shown outside Charing Cross Hospital in London (1968). The ambulance was possible thanks to the generosity of the Variety Club charity.
Herbert Barrie taking delivery of the neonatal ambulance, pictured with his senior nurse (Hazel Maycock) and Dr Stanley Balfour-Lynn of the Variety Club.
A newborn stabilised and ready for transport