In assessing a neonate’s response to positive pressure ventilation, what finding might suggest that the intervention is effective?

An effective response to positive pressure ventilation can typically be indicated by improved oxygen saturation. This improvement suggests that the intervention is successfully enhancing the neonate's gas exchange capabilities. When positive pressure ventilation is administered effectively, it increases lung volume, promotes better ventilation-perfusion matching, and facilitates oxygen delivery to the bloodstream. Consequently, an increase in oxygen saturation reflects the successful movement of oxygen into the blood, indicating that the ventilation is working as intended.

In contrast, while increased heart rate, reduced respiratory effort, and full, symmetrical chest movement may also signal positive changes, they do not provide as direct an indication of the efficacy of ventilation in terms of oxygenation. Heart rate changes can be influenced by a variety of factors and may not solely reflect ventilation effectiveness. Reduced respiratory effort might indicate improved ventilation, but it could also suggest fatigue or inadequate respiratory drive. Full, symmetrical chest movement indicates good mechanical ventilation but does not specifically confirm that gas exchange is occurring effectively. Therefore, improved oxygen saturation is the most direct and relevant indicator of effective positive pressure ventilation in a neonate.