History of Neonatal Resuscitation: From Tobacco and Spirits to Telemedicine.

This review traces the evolution of neonatal resuscitation from ancient practices to modern, evidence-based care. Standardization began with the introduction of the Apgar score in 1953 and expanded with the development of the Neonatal Resuscitation Program in 1987. Over time, key practices have been reevaluated through clinical research. Oxygen use shifted from routine 100% administration to more targeted concentrations, while routine suctioning for meconium-stained amniotic fluid has largely been abandoned. Delayed cord clamping is now recommended for improved neonatal outcomes, and therapeutic hypothermia has become standard care for hypoxic ischemic encephalopathy. More recently, telemedicine has emerged as a tool to enhance resuscitation quality in resource-limited settings. Together, these advances highlight a transition toward safer, standardized, and increasingly technology-supported neonatal care, with ongoing research continuing to refine best practices.