Statistical Analysis
The primary analysis was by intention to treat, including all randomized patients who were evaluated according to their assigned intervention. The primary outcome was the mean hematocrit level in the first 24 hours after birth. Group comparison (based on adjusted mean difference [AMD]) was performed by analysis of covariance (ANCOVA) with fixed effects for group, gestational age (24 weeks 0 days to 27 weeks 6 days vs >27 weeks 6 days) and gravidity (singleton vs multiples). Quantitative variables were described with the number of valid and missing values, mean, SD, and percentiles (0%, 25%, 50%, 75%, and 100%); group comparison was done analogously to the primary outcome. Qualitative variables are reported with absolute (number) and relative (percentage) frequencies; group comparison was done based on relative risk (with 95% CIs). A 2-tailed 