What action should be taken if a baby is gasping at birth?

If a baby is gasping at birth, performing positive pressure ventilation (PPV) is the appropriate action to take. Gasping indicates inadequate respiratory effort and a potential need for assistance in establishing effective breathing. PPV is a critical intervention that helps to provide oxygen and assist the baby in starting the process of effective ventilation.

During this phase, the newborn is at high risk for hypoxia due to insufficient oxygen exchange, and PPV delivers the necessary breaths to initiate respiration. This action aims to clear any airway obstructions that may be present and to ensure that the baby receives the appropriate volume of air required for adequate gas exchange.

Immediate intubation may not be necessary unless the baby does not respond to PPV, or if there are signs of severe respiratory failure. Routine care, while important, would not be sufficient in this case as the baby is exhibiting signs that require more immediate intervention for support. Monitoring the baby for 5 minutes without intervention would also not be appropriate in the presence of gasping, as this indicates the need for urgent management to prevent further complications.