Karen H. Strange, CPM, AAP/NRP Instructor

Biography:

Karen H. Strange is a certified professional midwife and nationally recognized instructor of the Neonatal Resuscitation Program (NRP). Since 1991, she has trained over 17,000 birth professionals in both hospital and out-of-hospital settings. Known for her dynamic, captivating teaching style and trauma-informed approach, Karen brings a rare blend of clinical skill, deep listening, and heart-centered presence to her instruction.

Karen’s work is distinguished by her integration of newborn physiology, the baby’s experience of birth, and the repair needed after stressful events. Her teachings go far beyond the algorithm—providing practical tools that help providers stay present, think clearly under pressure, and connect with the newborn in meaningful ways. Many midwives have shared that during actual resuscitations, it was “Karen’s voice” they heard in their heads—guiding them with clarity and reassurance.

A former Clinical Director at Maternidad La Luz, Karen also served on the Texas Department of Health Midwifery Board for over six years. She continues to teach and speak internationally, supporting midwives, doulas, nurses, and physicians who want to provide respectful, baby-centered care from the very beginning.

Abstract: Neonatal Resuscitation Today: New Guidelines, Changing Tools & Getting Priorities Right

What’s truly essential when a newborn needs resuscitation? In this timely session, we’ll explore the most current updates from the newly released 9th edition of the Neonatal Resuscitation Program (NRP) guidelines, with a focus on what birth professionals need to know now. One of the most significant changes is the expanded role of the laryngeal mask airway (LMA)—a device whose accessibility and effectiveness may shift how resuscitation is approached in out-of-hospital settings. But beyond the tools and techniques, we’ll return to a central question: How do we act precisely, do only what’s needed, and avoid doing harm?

With an emphasis on prioritization and presence, this session offers both practical updates and a framework for resuscitating newborns in a way that is efficient, effective, and as non-traumatic as possible. Whether you're already teaching NRP or attending births, you'll come away with deeper clarity about what matters most—regardless of setting, method, or equipment.