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Newborn respiratory depression — DipIMC MCQ

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EasyPaediatric and Obstetric EmergenciesNewborn respiratory depressionDipIMC

A newborn is delivered unexpectedly at home. After drying and stimulation, the baby is floppy, gasping and heart rate is about 70/min. What is the most appropriate immediate action?

Educational content. Not a substitute for clinical judgement or local policy.

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Correct answer: A — Open the airway and start inflation breaths with appropriate neonatal ventilation

Most newborn compromise is respiratory, so airway positioning and effective inflation breaths are the priority when heart rate is below 100 with inadequate breathing. Chest compressions are considered if the heart rate remains very low after effective ventilation. Adrenaline is not the first action. The pearl is that neonatal resuscitation is ventilation-led.

Reference: Resuscitation Council UK Newborn Life Support Guidelines 2025; JRCALC Guidelines 2025