A newborn term infant is receiving oxygen by oxyhood and has a SpO2 of 72%. What is the appropriate action for the neonatal/pediatric specialist?

In a scenario where a newborn term infant receiving oxygen via an oxyhood presents with a SpO2 of 72%, this indicates significant hypoxemia. A saturation level this low suggests that the infant is not adequately oxygenating, which could lead to severe physiological consequences, including potential organ damage or failure.

Initiating mechanical ventilation is the appropriate action in this case, as it directly addresses the need for adequate ventilation and oxygenation. Mechanical ventilation allows for controlled delivery of oxygen and can assist in improving both ventilation and the overall respiratory status of the infant.

While increasing the FiO2 might seem like a possible initial response, it may not be effective enough to correct the severe hypoxemia indicated by the SpO2 levels. Moreover, options that involve waiting or using less aggressive measures, like repeating a blood gas or initiating nasal CPAP, would likely result in further deterioration in the infant's condition, as time is of the essence in addressing severe hypoxia in neonates. Therefore, initiating mechanical ventilation is the most appropriate and immediate action to provide necessary respiratory support and ensure the safety of the newborn.