Implementation of the Helping Babies Breathe Training Program: A Systematic Review

Abstract

Context: Helping Babies Breathe (HBB) is a well-established neonatal resuscitation program designed to reduce newborn mortality in low-resource settings.

Objectives: In this literature review, we aim to identify challenges, knowledge gaps, and successes associated with each stage of HBB programming.

Data sources: Databases used in the systematic search included Medline, POPLINE, Cumulative Index to Nursing and Allied Health Literature, Latin American and Caribbean Health Sciences Literature, African Index Medicus, Cochrane, and Index Medicus.

Study selection: All articles related to HBB, in any language, were included. Article quality was assessed by using the Grading of Recommendations Assessment, Development, and Evaluation framework.

Data extraction: Data were extracted if related to HBB, including its implementation, acquisition and retention of HBB knowledge and skills, changes in provider behavior and clinical care, or the impact on newborn outcomes.

Results: Ninety-four articles met inclusion criteria. Barriers to HBB implementation include staff turnover and limited time or focus on training and practice. Researchers of several studies found HBB cost-effective. Posttraining decline in knowledge and skills can be prevented with low-dose high-frequency refresher trainings, on-the-job practice, or similar interventions. Impact of HBB training on provider clinical practices varies. Although not universal, researchers in multiple studies have shown a significant association of decreased perinatal mortality with HBB implementation.

Limitations: In addition to not conducting a gray literature search, articles relating only to Essential Care for Every Baby or Essential Care for Small Babies were not included in this review.

Conclusions: Key challenges and requirements for success associated with each stage of HBB programming were identified. Despite challenges in obtaining neonatal mortality data, the program is widely believed to improve neonatal outcomes in resource-limited settings.