The transition from intrauterine to extrauterine life stresses the newly born, and the transition period can last for several hours after birth. The newly born undergoing neonatal resuscitation endure additional physiologic stress. When complications at birth happen, multiple organs may be impacted. This section discusses the common complications and effects on vital organ systems and guides the providers on appropriate postnatal monitoring and management. 

There are two types of postnatal care: (1) routine care and (2) postresuscitation care.