What indicates a successful initial heart rate assessment within the first 15 seconds of positive pressure ventilation (PPV)?

A successful initial heart rate assessment within the first 15 seconds of positive pressure ventilation (PPV) is indicated by an increase in heart rate. When a newborn is experiencing respiratory distress or ineffective breathing, PPV is often initiated to provide adequate ventilation and oxygenation. The goal of this intervention is to restore normal physiological function.

When the PPV is effective, the newborn's heart rate typically increases as blood flow and oxygenation improve, reflecting enhanced cardiac output and recovery from hypoxia. An increase in heart rate signals that the infant is responding appropriately to the resuscitation efforts, and it is a positive indicator of improvement in the infant's condition. This underscores the fundamental aim of resuscitation: to stabilize the heart rate and improve overall perfusion and oxygenation to vital organs.

In contrast, options such as a decrease in heart rate or no change in heart rate would indicate that the PPV might not be effective, suggesting inadequate ventilation or continued hypoxia. If the heart rate remains below a critical threshold, such as 60 bpm, further intervention would be needed, and it would not signify a successful outcome of the initial PPV assessment. Therefore, an increase in heart rate is the optimal indicator of a successful initial heart rate assessment during