Table 1 Summary of clinical recommendations from the NHMRC endorsed Australian and New Zealand clinical practice guidelines [10]
From: Working to improve survival and health for babies born very preterm: the WISH project protocol
Clinical recommendations | Grade^ | Chapter |
|---|---|---|
In women at risk of early preterm imminent birth, use magnesium sulphate for neuroprotection of the fetus, infant and child: | A | 4-7 |
• When gestational age is less than 30 weeks. | B | 8 |
• When early preterm birth is planned or definitely expected within 24 hours (when birth is planned, commence magnesium sulphate as close to four hours before birth as possible). | A | 9 |
• Intravenously with a 4 gram loading dose (slowly over 20–30 minutes) and 1 gram per hour maintenance dose via intravenous route, with no immediate repeat doses. Continue regimen until birth or for 24 hours, whichever comes first. | C | 10 |
• Regardless of plurality (number of babies in utero). | B | 11 |
• Regardless of the reason women (at less than 30 weeks gestation) are considered to be at risk of preterm birth. | B | 12 |
• Regardless of parity (number of previous births for the woman). | B | 13 |
• Regardless of anticipated mode of birth. | B | 14 |
• Regardless of whether or not antenatal corticosteroids have been given. | B | 15 |