June 1, 2016 – The North American Registry of Midwives (NARM), the certification agency for Certified Professional Midwives, has extended their approval for BRN as meeting their requirements for neonatal resuscitation.

BRN (Biodynamic Resuscitation of the Newborn) is an evidence-based approach to  neonatal resuscitation designed for low-tech, out-of-hospital settings.  Created in 2010, BRN is based on the findings of the International Liaison Committee on Resuscitation (ILCOR) neonatal task force.   BRN incorporates the latest evidence on best practice for assisting a distressed baby in a field setting without advanced technology or a pediatric team at hand, and is based on biodynamic care principles.

NARM first approved BRN as an option for meeting CPM requirements In April 2011.  Five years later, in April 2016, NARM again approved BRN, with approval extending indefinitely.

BRN is one of two NARM approved options for training and certification in the knowledge and skills needed to assist transitioning newborns.  The other option is the Neonatal Resuscitation Program (NRP), which is sponsored by the American Heart Association and the American Academy of Pediatrics.  A hospital-based program dependent on technology such as oxygen mixers and pulse oxymeters, NRP includes advanced life saving methods (such as medications and intubation) which are needed by only one out of 2000 deliveries, most of those preterm babies.

A BRN training will be offered at Birthingway College on Thursday, September 8 from 8:30am to 1:30pm.  For more information, or to learn about how to train as a BRN instructor, contact the College.

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