Final answer:
Chest compressions and medication are rarely needed when resuscitating newborns; the primary concern is usually to assist with breathing. Proper technique and training in CPR are critical to avoid injury while performing life-saving chest compressions in accordance with current guidelines.
Step-by-step explanation:
When resuscitating newborns, chest compressions and medication are rarely needed. Cardiopulmonary resuscitation (CPR) is an emergency life-saving technique that involves applying pressure to the sternum to compress the heart and circulate blood to vital organs, particularly the brain. In newborns, the focus is typically on providing adequate ventilation rather than chest compressions, as most newborn resuscitations involve assisting with breathing rather than cardiac issues. Nevertheless, when chest compressions are necessary, they must be performed correctly to minimize the risk of injury to the infant.
Current guidelines advocate a compression depth of at least 5 cm and a rate of 100 compressions per minute, which aligns with the beat of the 1977 Bee Gees song "Staying Alive." This rhythm helps to maintain proper timing during CPR. Proper training in CPR is essential to avoid causing injury, such as broken ribs or damage to internal organs, and such training is valuable for medical personnel and the general public alike. Courses on CPR are available through various institutions, including the American Red Cross, and emphasize the correct technique through practice on mannequins.