During resuscitation, what is the primary goal of administering intravenous epinephrine to a newborn?

The primary goal of administering intravenous epinephrine during resuscitation, especially in newborns, is to enhance cardiac output. Epinephrine is a potent vasopressor and inotropic agent, which means that it can increase the force of the heart's contractions and improve the efficiency of the heart's pumping mechanism. This is particularly critical in newborns who may be experiencing cardiac failure or inadequate perfusion during resuscitation. By enhancing cardiac output, epinephrine helps to improve blood flow to vital organs, thereby increasing the likelihood of a successful resuscitation effort.

Improving blood pressure, while important, is often a secondary result of enhanced cardiac output. Similarly, while oxygen saturation and ventilation are essential components of effective resuscitation, the direct impact of epinephrine is more closely related to its effects on heart function rather than on respiratory outcomes. Thus, the focus on enhancing cardiac output underscores the critical role of this medication in the urgent context of newborn resuscitation.