Initial Oxygen Concentration at Birth in Late-Preterm Infants

Cluster Randomized Trial of Initial Oxygen Concentration at Birth in Late-Preterm Infants

This study is aims to examine the best amount of oxygen to give preterm babies (born between 32 and 35 weeks) right after birth.

In the past, doctors used high levels of oxygen, but research has shown that using lower levels might help reduce the risk of death in full-term babies without harming brain development. However, investigators don't know the best oxygen level for babies born a little early (32 to 35 weeks). Some early data suggests that giving lower oxygen levels (FiO2 0.3) may not help babies reach healthy oxygen levels by 5 minutes after birth. This study will compare two oxygen levels-FiO2 0.6 and FiO2 0.3 to see which helps babies breathe better and need less ongoing breathing support. Researchers will study over 1,500 babies in hospitals across Alberta, Canada, to find the safest approach for these babies.

Inclusion Criteria:

• i) Infants with gestational age between 32+0-35+6 weeks based on best available obstetrical estimate, requiring respiratory support
• ii) Infants designated to receive full resuscitation, i.e., no parental request or pre-determined decision to provide only comfort care at birth
• iii) No known major congenital or chromosomal malformation.

Exclusion Criteria:

• i) Infant born outside of study centers and transported to centers after delivery.