NRP Cheat Sheet 2026

The 30 highest-yield NRP facts, distilled from real exam questions. Print it, save it as a PDF, or study it here — free, no sign-up.

1. What is the T-piece resuscitator's main advantage over a self-inflating bag? → Delivers consistent, adjustable PIP and PEEP with less provider fatigue
2. When chest compressions are being performed, what oxygen concentration should be used for PPV? → 100% oxygen
3. What complication is most specifically associated with deep or malpositioned UVC placement into the portal venous system? → Portal vein thrombosis or portal hypertension from infusion of hypertonic solutions
4. Hyperthermia (temperature >38°C) during or after neonatal resuscitation is associated with which outcome? → Increased risk of brain injury and worsened outcomes
5. Which gestational age range is commonly referred to as the 'gray zone' or threshold of viability in neonatal resuscitation ethics? → 22–25 weeks
6. Pause breathing. Next course of action → A: Launch PPV
7. What is the primary purpose of an antenatal counseling session prior to a threatened extremely preterm delivery? → To prepare families and establish shared goals of care before delivery
8. What does the NRP recommend regarding informed consent for resuscitation in the delivery room? → Consent is implied in emergency situations; prenatal counseling when possible is preferred
9. How deep should sternal compressions be in a newborn? → One-third the anterior-posterior diameter of the chest
10. Which of the following is NOT an indication for volume expansion during neonatal resuscitation? → Routine use to improve response to epinephrine
11. What should be used to achieve correct head positioning when the newborn has a large occiput? → A small shoulder roll
12. After administering the first dose of epinephrine IV during neonatal resuscitation, when should the next dose be given if the heart rate remains below 60 bpm? → After 3–5 minutes
13. What is an umbilical venous catheter emergency insertion depth for a 3 kg newborn? → Approximately 4–5 cm until blood return, then advance 2 cm beyond the ductus venosus
14. Babies that were hypoxemic and/or academic at birth may still have constricted pulmonary blood arteries. What's the name of this condition? → Newborn with persistent pulmonary hypertension
15. What is the correct technique for holding the laryngoscope during neonatal intubation? → In the left hand, blade down, with the handle vertical
16. What is the target preductal SpO2 at 5 minutes of life for a newborn undergoing resuscitation, according to NRP guidelines? → 80–85%
17. What complication of umbilical arterial catheter (UAC) insertion is specific to the arterial system and does not occur with UVC? → Vasospasm causing blanching or cyanosis of the lower extremities
18. What is the role of CO₂ detectors in the presence of extremely poor cardiac output? → They may give a false negative (no color change) even with correct tracheal placement
19. At what gestational age is a preterm infant considered to have adequate thermal regulation without a polyethylene wrap? → 32–36 weeks
20. A baby is born at 22 weeks gestation with no signs of life after 10 minutes of resuscitation. What is the most ethically appropriate next step? → Discontinue resuscitation and focus on comfort care
21. Which three questions should be answered at every birth to determine if resuscitation may be needed? → Gestational age, tone, and breathing/crying
22. For infants born at less than 32 weeks' gestation, which intervention is specifically recommended by NRP to prevent heat loss in the delivery room? → Polyethylene plastic bag or wrap
23. What does the NRP recommend regarding temperature targets in the post-resuscitation period? → Maintain normothermia (36.5–37.5°C) unless therapeutic hypothermia is indicated
24. MC extra colonic tumor in lynch syndrome? → Endometrium
25. How should a resuscitation team handle a situation where parents' wishes conflict with the medical team's assessment of the infant's best interest? → Engage in open communication, involve ethics consultation if needed, and seek consensus
26. What is the recommended oxygen concentration to begin PPV for a term newborn? → 21% (room air)
27. For how long is therapeutic hypothermia typically maintained in eligible neonates with HIE? → 72 hours
28. What clinical sign distinguishes a newborn with primary apnea from one with secondary apnea? → Primary apnea responds to stimulation; secondary apnea does not and requires PPV
29. What is the preferred technique for chest compressions during neonatal resuscitation? → Two-thumb encircling technique
30. Which of the following best illustrates an ethical conflict between beneficence and autonomy in neonatal resuscitation? → A team resuscitates a neonate against the family's informed refusal of care