Equipment and planning for neonatal air transport.

When transfer of a newborn infant by helicopter becomes necessary, electrical and mechanical devices are used to overcome some inconvenient aspects of the aviation environment. The aircraft must have an effective cabin heater, satisfactory interior illumination, a system for noise attenuation and voice communication, an oxygen source, and a supply of usable electric current. Medical equipment should be lightweight, portable, and designed or adapted for out-of-hospital use and have redundant energy sources. The transport incubator is the most important medical item. Electrical monitors for pulse, cardiac rhythm, blood pressure, respiratory rate, and body temperature are essential, and a defibrillator, infusion pump, and several other items are highly desirable.