What is the appropriate action when a newborn has a poor APGAR score indicating a need for immediate assistance?

When a newborn presents with a poor APGAR score, it indicates the infant may be experiencing difficulty with breathing, heart rate, muscle tone, reflex response, and skin color, all of which are critical for adequate oxygenation and perfusion. An APGAR score of 7 or higher is usually considered normal, and lower scores suggest that immediate interventions are required to stabilize the infant.

In cases where the APGAR score is significantly low, the appropriate action is to begin cardiopulmonary resuscitation (CPR). This is essential because CPR can help restore normal circulation and breathing. Rapid resolution of these issues is crucial in a newborn, as they can deteriorate rapidly if oxygen supply is compromised.

While stimulation, supplemental oxygen, and routine care are important components of neonatal resuscitation, these measures are secondary to initiating CPR when the situation demands immediate action. They do not replace the need for CPR in cases of severe distress or poor responsiveness. Thus, the initiation of CPR aligns with established protocols for managing newborns with critically low APGAR scores.