These guidelines are intended for use within The Simpson Centre for Reproductive Health, Edinburgh, and the special care baby unit at St John's hospital, Livingstone.  It is the responsibility of medical and nursing staff to be aware of their content and to consult these guidelines when planning the care of their patients. It is recognised that not all clinical situations are anticipated and covered when guidelines are recommended. In individual circumstances it may be appropriate to make alternative decisions. No responsibility can be taken for the use of these guidelines in the care of patients not under the supervision of the staff within NHS Lothian.

For operational reasons certain guidelines for use in SJH SCBU will be different from those in SCRH. These guidelines are clearly marked. The SJH version will be found in the "St John's - SCBU" section. It is your responsibility to ensure that you are following the correct version.

Updating of the guidelines takes place following discussion within a clinical working group.  New guidelines and changes to existing entries will be mentioned at the Unit meeting and advertised on the communication notice board.  If you have any suggestions for changes or additions to the guidelines, please inform any of the consultants.

All of the consultant neonatologists have reviewed the content of these guidelines and have agreed to their continuing use.

Ben Stenson, Chris Kissack, Julie-Clare Becher, James Boardman, Edie Murdoch, David Quine, Ewen Johnston, Claire Smith, Judith Orme, Vix Monnelly, Angela Davidson, Sarah Sparrow, Fraser Christie.