Is measuring heart rate by feeling for a pulse in the cord stump considered accurate?

Measuring heart rate by feeling for a pulse in the cord stump is not considered accurate because the cord stump does not provide a reliable indication of the infant's heart rate. The umbilical cord's structure can lead to misinterpretation of the pulse, and external factors may also influence what is felt.

The most reliable methods for assessing heart rate in newborns involve using direct assessment techniques, such as auscultation with a stethoscope or using a cardiopulmonary monitor, which accurately reflects the heart's activity. This is particularly important in newborn life support, where accurate heart rate measurement is critical for evaluating the infant's condition and determining the need for further intervention.

Relying on the pulse from the cord stump can lead to insufficient or unnecessary medical responses, emphasizing the importance of using validated techniques in clinical practice.