What is the appropriate heart rate threshold for initiating resuscitation in a newborn?

The appropriate heart rate threshold for initiating resuscitation in a newborn is 60 beats per minute. When a newborn's heart rate is below this threshold, it indicates inadequate circulation and potential hypoxia. Immediate resuscitation efforts, such as effective ventilation and chest compressions, become crucial at this point to prevent further complications and to restore adequate blood flow and oxygen delivery to systemic organs.

In clinical practice, a heart rate below 60 beats per minute signals a critical situation where the newborn's life is at risk, necessitating prompt action to support their respiratory and cardiac function. Newborn resuscitation protocols emphasize the importance of monitoring heart rate closely, as it serves as a vital sign in assessing the newborn's condition and effectiveness of any interventions initiated.