What should be done if the baby’s heart rate is less than 100 bpm?

When a newborn's heart rate drops below 100 beats per minute, it is critical to intervene promptly to ensure adequate oxygen delivery and support to the infant. The appropriate response in this scenario is to start positive pressure ventilation (PPV). This action is necessary to assist in improving oxygenation and circulation since a heart rate below this threshold indicates potential respiratory failure or inadequate cardiac output.

Initiating PPV helps to establish effective ventilation, which is essential for increasing the heart rate and stabilizing the infant's condition. If left unaddressed, a low heart rate can lead to further complications and a decline in the baby's overall health status.

In contrast, simply continuing to monitor without intervention may be insufficient and could allow the baby's condition to deteriorate. Stopping all interventions would also prevent necessary care and support needed for the infant at this critical moment. Intubation may be required if PPV is unsuccessful or if there are ongoing issues requiring airway management, but it is not the initial step when addressing a heart rate under 100 bpm. Thus, PPV is the appropriate first step in this situation.