What action should be taken for a newborn that is not breathing?

For a newborn that is not breathing, the appropriate action is to begin CPR and ventilate. In the case of newborns, the initial steps when they are not breathing involve assessing the situation, providing positive pressure ventilation with a bag-mask device if available, and performing chest compressions if the heart rate is below 60 beats per minute despite adequate ventilation.

In a newborn, the respiratory system is still developing, and assistance with breathing is often critical. The underlying goal in this situation is to ensure adequate oxygenation and circulation until advanced medical help can take over. Effective and timely CPR can be lifesaving and is crucial in managing a newborn who is in respiratory distress or who has stopped breathing.

Other options, such as administering medication, are not the immediate interventions for an unresponsive newborn. Calling for emergency help is also essential, but the priority is to initiate life-saving measures first. Performing abdominal thrusts is inappropriate for infants, as it may cause injury and is not effective in addressing breathing issues. Therefore, initiating CPR and providing ventilation is the most critical and appropriate action to take in this scenario.