Effects of type of birth and anaesthetic on neonatal behavioral assessment scale scores

Abstract

The effects of a number of types of birth and anaesthetics on performance on the Brazelton Neonatal Behavioral Assessment Scale were examined. The subjects were 106 first-borns, who were assessed on the 1st, 5th and 28th day of life. A large part of the sample was very stressed on the first day post partum. Poor scores were recorded for most groups on all four subscales of the NBAS on the first day. At 28 days significant differences were recorded between different anaesthetic groups on the Motoric Processes and State Control subscales of the NBAS. Babies who experienced the epidural caesarian type of birth had the lowest scores on both these subscales. The potential of early disorganization in the baby to disrupt the relationship with the mother is discussed.