Different Effects of Two Protocols for Pre-Procedural Analgosedation on Vital Signs in Neonates during and after Endotracheal Intubation.

Background: Analgosedation is often used for endotracheal intubation in neonates, but no consensus exists on the optimal pre-procedural medication.

Aims: To compare the time to intubation and vital signs during and after intubation in 2 NICUs using different premedication protocols.

Methods: Prospective observational study in 2 tertiary NICUs, comparing fentanyl and optional vecuronium for elective neonatal endotracheal intubation (NICU-1) with atropine, morphine, midazolam and optional pancuronium (NICU-2).