What is the priority action for a newborn that is not breathing after delivery?

In the case of a newborn who is not breathing after delivery, the priority action is to initiate positive pressure ventilation. This is crucial because a newborn's ability to breathe is vital for oxygenating their blood and supporting their overall health immediately after birth.

When a newborn does not breathe spontaneously, it signifies respiratory distress that can lead to significant complications if not addressed quickly. Positive pressure ventilation can effectively deliver oxygen to the lungs, which is necessary to prevent hypoxia and support the newborn's transition to extrauterine life. This intervention ensures that the baby receives the oxygen-rich air needed to stimulate breathing and maintain proper organ function.

While providing tactile stimulation, using a suction device, and keeping the baby warm are also important care steps in the resuscitation process, they generally follow the initiation of ventilation when the newborn is apneic (not breathing). The primary focus in such a critical situation is restoring adequate respiratory function as quickly as possible.