North American Registry of Midwives (NARM) Practice Exam

What is the most common cause for the need for newborn resuscitation?

1. Pneumonia

2. Fetal asphyxia

3. Congenital heart defects

4. Prematurity

The correct answer is: Fetal asphyxia

The most common cause for the need for newborn resuscitation is fetal asphyxia. This condition occurs when a newborn does not receive adequate oxygen before, during, or immediately after delivery. It is a critical factor since the transition from intrauterine to extrauterine life requires the newborn to establish effective breathing and circulation, which can be compromised if there has been a failure in oxygen supply during labor and delivery. Fetal asphyxia can arise from a number of situations such as umbilical cord complications (like cord compression), maternal health issues (like preeclampsia), or problems during labor (like prolonged labor or uterine rupture). The effects can be immediate, and if not addressed quickly through resuscitation, it can lead to serious consequences such as brain damage or neonatal death. Recognizing the importance of oxygenation and the factors that contribute to fetal asphyxia is crucial for midwives and healthcare providers. While other conditions such as pneumonia, congenital heart defects, and prematurity can also necessitate resuscitation, they are less frequently the primary triggers compared to the significant impact of asphyxia at birth. Therefore, understanding fetal asphyxia as the leading cause helps in identifying at-risk newborns and preparing appropriate interventions