What nursing action is essential after birth to promote infant respiration if apneic?

• A. Provide ventilation as per resuscitation protocol (clear airway and PPV if needed)
• B. Assist with drying and warming while monitoring color
• C. Initiate bottle feeding immediately
• D. Call for help but do not intervene

Answer: (A)

When a newborn is apneic, the immediate priority is to establish and support ventilation to oxygenate the lungs and stimulate breathing. The essential action is to provide ventilation using a resuscitation approach: clear the airway if needed to ensure it’s patent, then deliver positive-pressure ventilation with a bag–valve mask (PPV) at the appropriate rate until the baby shows signs of effective breathing and a usable heart rate.

This direct action addresses the core problem—no breathing—by expanding the lungs, reinflating airways, and promoting gas exchange. Drying and warming are important supportive measures that help overall transition and prevent hypothermia, but they do not by themselves restore respiration in an apneic newborn. Feeding isn’t appropriate in the resuscitation moment, and waiting for help without intervening would miss the critical window to restart breathing.

If ventilation is started and there’s no improvement, follow the resuscitation protocol for escalating measures, such as providing oxygen as indicated and seeking additional help.