North American Registry of Midwives (NARM) Practice Exam 2025 – The All-in-One Resource to Master Your Midwifery Certification!

The recommended rate of breaths to be delivered with positive pressure ventilation during newborn resuscitation is set at 40 to 60 breaths per minute. This rate is based on guidelines established to ensure effective ventilation and optimal oxygenation for the newborn.

In resuscitation scenarios, especially for newborns who are not breathing adequately, it’s crucial to provide positive pressure ventilations at a rate that mimics the physiological needs of the infant. Too slow a rate may not provide sufficient oxygenation, while a rate that is too fast could lead to hyperventilation and potential complications such as increased intracranial pressure due to excess CO2 expulsion.

Thus, 40 to 60 breaths per minute strikes a balance, maintaining an effective exchange of gases while aligning with the newborn's respiratory physiology, assisting in rapid stabilization during a critical period immediately following birth. This understanding is essential for anyone involved in neonatal care and resuscitation, ensuring that interventions support the infant's transition to independent breathing.