If it becomes necessary to use a suction catheter during neonatal resuscitation, the suction control should be set at a negative pressure of:

• A. 40-60 mm Hg
• B. 60-80 mm Hg
• C. 80-100 mm Hg
• D. 100-120 mm Hg

Answer: (C)

During neonatal resuscitation, suction is used cautiously to clear secretions without harming the delicate airway. Using a negative pressure in the 80-100 mm Hg range provides a balance: it is strong enough to remove secretions when needed, but gentle enough to minimize mucosal injury, airway trauma, hypoxemia, and bradycardia that can occur with higher pressures. If suction is too low, secretions may not be cleared effectively, leading to repeated suction attempts and delays in ventilation. If it’s too high, the risk of tissue injury and physiological instability increases. So, 80-100 mm Hg is the optimal setting.