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. Pause breathing. Next course of action → A: Launch PPV
6. 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
7. How deep should sternal compressions be in a newborn? → One-third the anterior-posterior diameter of the chest
8. Which of the following is NOT an indication for volume expansion during neonatal resuscitation? → Routine use to improve response to epinephrine
9. What should be used to achieve correct head positioning when the newborn has a large occiput? → A small shoulder roll
10. 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
11. 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
12. 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
13. What is the correct technique for holding the laryngoscope during neonatal intubation? → In the left hand, blade down, with the handle vertical
14. What is the target preductal SpO2 at 5 minutes of life for a newborn undergoing resuscitation, according to NRP guidelines? → 80–85%
15. 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
16. 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
17. At what gestational age is a preterm infant considered to have adequate thermal regulation without a polyethylene wrap? → 32–36 weeks
18. Which three questions should be answered at every birth to determine if resuscitation may be needed? → Gestational age, tone, and breathing/crying
19. 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
20. 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
21. MC extra colonic tumor in lynch syndrome? → Endometrium
22. 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
23. What is the recommended oxygen concentration to begin PPV for a term newborn? → 21% (room air)
24. For how long is therapeutic hypothermia typically maintained in eligible neonates with HIE? → 72 hours
25. 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
26. What is the preferred technique for chest compressions during neonatal resuscitation? → Two-thumb encircling technique
27. At what heart rate threshold should positive pressure ventilation (PPV) be initiated in a newborn? → Heart rate below 100 bpm
28. Why is an endotracheal tube preferred over a mask when chest compressions are required? → It provides a secure airway and more reliable ventilation during coordinated compressions
29. At what depth (lip-to-tip) should a 3.5 mm ETT be placed in a 3 kg term newborn? → ~9–10 cm at the lip
30. What is the expected SpO₂ target at 1 minute of life for a term newborn being resuscitated? → 60–65%