What should be monitored closely during resuscitation following effective positive pressure ventilation?

Monitoring oxygen saturation and heart rate during resuscitation following effective positive pressure ventilation is crucial for several reasons. When resuscitating a newborn, the primary goals are to ensure adequate oxygen delivery and circulation. Oxygen saturation levels indicate how well the newborn is receiving oxygen, which is vital after interventions like positive pressure ventilation. If oxygen saturation is low, it can signal inadequate ventilation or ongoing respiratory distress, prompting the need for further interventions.

Heart rate is another critical parameter because it provides insight into the effectiveness of circulation and the newborn's overall cardiovascular status. A normal heart rate during resuscitation indicates that the heart is effectively pumping blood and that the body is receiving the oxygen it needs. A decreasing heart rate can be a sign of hypoxia or poor perfusion, signaling the need for immediate action.

In contrast, while blood pressure and temperature, respiratory rate and blood glucose, or peripheral circulation and muscle tone have their importance in neonatal assessment, they do not provide the immediate and direct feedback needed during the critical phase of resuscitation focused on establishing effective ventilation and circulation. Monitoring oxygen saturation and heart rate gives the resuscitation team essential information regarding the newborn's response to the resuscitative efforts.