Neonatal Resuscitation Program (NRP) 2025 – 400 Free Practice Questions to Pass the Exam

Assessing heart rate during neonatal resuscitation is primarily crucial for evaluating the effectiveness of ventilations. In newborns, a low heart rate can be an indication that the baby is not receiving adequate respiratory support. Effective positive pressure ventilation is critical in situations where the newborn is not breathing effectively or adequately. A heart rate below 60 beats per minute can suggest that resuscitation efforts, including ventilation, may not be sufficient, necessitating further intervention such as additional ventilatory support or chest compressions.

The importance of heart rate monitoring in this context stems from its direct correlation with the newborn's oxygenation and overall cardiovascular stability. If the heart rate improves with effective bag-mask ventilation, it signals that the interventions being carried out are beneficial and that the oxygenation status is improving. Therefore, the heart rate serves as a vital parameter that directly informs the resuscitation team's actions and their effectiveness during the procedure.