What is the primary role of a midwife in neonatal resuscitation?

The primary role of a midwife in neonatal resuscitation involves assessing the newborn's condition and providing immediate care. This includes monitoring critical signs such as the infant's heart rate, breathing effort, and overall responsiveness right after birth. The midwife is trained to recognize when a newborn is in distress and to implement the necessary interventions, which may involve providing positive pressure ventilation or chest compressions depending on the situation.

Additionally, immediate care may include ensuring the infant is kept warm, suctioning the airway if necessary, and providing stimulation to encourage breathing. These actions are vital for the newborn's transition to life outside the womb, addressing any potential issues promptly and effectively to reduce the risk of long-term complications.

Monitoring maternal health during delivery, documenting the birth process, and performing the first immunization, while important aspects of midwifery care, do not directly relate to the immediate and critical actions required during neonatal resuscitation. The emphasis in this context is on the midwife's role in rapidly assessing and responding to the needs of the newborn.