What vessel is commonly used for emergency vascular access in newborns requiring medication during resuscitation?

The umbilical vein is commonly used for emergency vascular access in newborns requiring medication during resuscitation because it offers a direct and efficient pathway to administer fluids and medications. When a newborn is in need of resuscitation, obtaining intravenous access can be challenging due to the small size of their veins. The umbilical vein, which remains accessible immediately following birth, allows healthcare providers to quickly and effectively deliver essential treatments.

This vessel carries oxygen-rich blood from the placenta to the fetus, and it can be accessed easily in an emergency. Additionally, using the umbilical vein minimizes the delay in critical care, which is vital in resuscitation scenarios where timely intervention can be lifesaving. In contrast, while other vessels such as the femoral vein, umbilical artery, and jugular vein could theoretically provide access, they are either less optimal options or involve more complex procedures that can delay urgent care.