What is the minimum weight to attempt resuscitation efforts on a pre-term infant?

The minimum weight to consider for resuscitation efforts on a pre-term infant is generally accepted to be around 500 grams. This weight threshold is based on clinical guidelines and research that indicate infants below this weight have significantly lower survival rates and are less likely to benefit from aggressive resuscitative measures. Literature supports that resuscitative efforts may be futile for those under this threshold due to the extreme immaturity of their organ systems and the high risk of complications.

The decision to initiate resuscitation in pre-term infants involves a complex assessment of gestational age, birth weight, and overall clinical condition. In many clinical settings, guidelines emphasize that resuscitation can be appropriate for infants weighing 500 grams or more, considering the potential for survival and quality of life. Therefore, 500 grams serves as a critical benchmark in neonatal care for determining the viability of resuscitation efforts.