Effect of Timing of Cord Clamping on Oxygen Saturation

Abstract

Background: The timing of cord clamping affects the total blood volume of the neonate, and this directly impacts circulatory stability and the likelihood of survival of the neonate. Critical oxygen delivery as evidenced by oxygen saturation can be affected by cord clamping practices.

Objective: To determine the effect of timing of cord clamping on oxygen saturation within the first hour of birth.

Materials and Methods: This was analytical cohort study carried out on 262 term newborns born at the University of Abuja Teaching Hospital from 5th May to 10th November 2015. 132 had immediate cord clamping and 130 were delayed. Oxygen saturation using pulse oximetry was measured every 15 minutes within first hour of life 

Results:  there was a gradual improvement in oxygen saturation with increasing time within the first hour with statistical significance in favor of delayed cord clamping with p < 0.05. at each 15-minute interval.

Discussion: Delayed cord clamping had a positive effect on oxygen saturation when compared to immediate cord clamping. The values were higher and this implied quicker circulatory stability for them. However, beyond one minute of delay, the oxygen saturation values were not statistically significant.

Conclusion: Delayed cord clamping conferred better oxygen saturation values within the first hour of life.