When should chest compressions be initiated in a newborn?

Initiating chest compressions in a newborn is critical in the context of resuscitation efforts and is guided by the heart rate. The correct threshold for beginning chest compressions is when the heart rate falls below 60 beats per minute. This is a key indicator that the newborn is experiencing significant cardiovascular compromise and is not receiving sufficient blood flow.

In newborn life support, effective compressions can help restore circulation and perfusion to vital organs. If the heart rate is significantly low (below 60 beats per minute), it indicates that the newborn may not be able to sustain adequate blood flow and is at risk of cardiac arrest. Therefore, chest compressions are a vital part of the resuscitation protocol when this level of bradycardia is present.

A heart rate less than 100 beats per minute may still indicate distress but does not warrant chest compressions unless it is accompanied by other signs of poor perfusion or asystole. Similarly, while a heart rate above 60 but below 80 might be concerning, actionable intervention in terms of compressions is reserved for the more critical threshold of under 60 beats per minute, where immediate action is necessary. When the heart rate is not detectable, advanced resuscitation measures are required, but