At what heart rate should you be performing chest compressions on a newborn?

At what heart rate should you be performing chest compressions on a newborn?

• A. HR ≥100
• B. HR <100
• C. HR <60
• D. HR >120

Answer: (C)

In newborn resuscitation, the need for chest compressions is driven by perfusion as shown by the heart rate. After you’ve established a patent airway and provided effective ventilation, you check the infant’s heart rate. If the heart rate remains below 60 beats per minute despite adequate ventilation, that’s when you start chest compressions to improve blood flow to the heart and brain. Once compressions begin, you follow the neonatal CPR pattern with a 3:1 compression-to-ventilation ratio. If the heart rate is between 60 and 100, continue ventilation and monitor closely; if it’s over 100, you continue supportive care and reassess as needed. The <60 bpm threshold is the trigger to start compressions because perfusion is critically insufficient at that level.

In newborn resuscitation, the need for chest compressions is driven by perfusion as shown by the heart rate. After you’ve established a patent airway and provided effective ventilation, you check the infant’s heart rate. If the heart rate remains below 60 beats per minute despite adequate ventilation, that’s when you start chest compressions to improve blood flow to the heart and brain. Once compressions begin, you follow the neonatal CPR pattern with a 3:1 compression-to-ventilation ratio. If the heart rate is between 60 and 100, continue ventilation and monitor closely; if it’s over 100, you continue supportive care and reassess as needed. The <60 bpm threshold is the trigger to start compressions because perfusion is critically insufficient at that level.