title: Obstetrics without an on site paediatrician.
abstract: A ten year review (1980-89) of Wexford perinatal statistics is presented. Particular emphasis was placed on neonatal deaths and transfer rates of normally formed infants. Increased visits by paediatricians in the last two years have been associated with an increased neonatal transfer rate to a regional unit 40 miles away. Neonatal mortality rates have not improved, though any beneficial effects on infant morbidity was not assessed. The case for on site paediatric expertise with at least two consultants to provide a continuous service is argued.
authors.affiliation: Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, Wexford General Hospital.
authors.forename: D
authors.initials: D
authors.lastname: Ryan
authors.forename: J
authors.initials: J
authors.lastname: Hanna
authors.forename: H
authors.initials: H
authors.lastname: Murphy
mesh_terms: D001724:Birth Weight; D005260:Female; D006801:Humans; D007226:Infant Mortality; D007231:Infant, Newborn; D015931:Intensive Care, Neonatal / Q000706:statistics & numerical data; D007494:Ireland; D009775:Obstetrics and Gynecology Department, Hospital / Q000706:statistics & numerical data*; D010360:Patient Transfer / Q000706:statistics & numerical data*; D010372:Pediatrics; D011247:Pregnancy; D012131:Respiratory Insufficiency / Q000209:etiology; D012189:Retrospective Studies