What is the primary reason for neonatal resuscitation?

The primary reason for neonatal resuscitation is inadequate oxygenation. Newborns, especially those who are preterm or face complications during delivery, may experience a lack of adequate oxygen due to various reasons, such as airway obstruction or difficulties in establishing effective ventilation. The immediate goal of neonatal resuscitation is to ensure that the newborn receives enough oxygen to support vital organ function and to prevent hypoxic injury.

Providing proper ventilation and supplemental oxygen is critical in these situations to restore normal breathing and circulation. Inadequate oxygenation can lead to serious complications, including brain injury or death, making it imperative for healthcare providers to rapidly assess and intervene to secure the airway and restore effective breathing immediately after birth.

While factors like cardiac failure, hypothermia, and infection are also important concerns in the neonatal population, they are secondary in the immediate context of resuscitation efforts. The focus during the initial moments following a newborn’s birth is primarily on ensuring adequate oxygenation and ventilation.