Paramedic National Registry Practice 2026 - Free Paramedic Practice Questions and Exam Preparation Guide

Rubbing and massaging the back of a neonate is a common method used to stimulate breathing. This gentle tactile stimulation helps to activate the respiratory centers in the brain. When a neonate is born, they may need assistance to begin breathing independently, and this method can encourage them to take their first breaths by providing physical stimulus that can help to clear the airways and improve respiratory effort.

The other methods, while potentially useful in different contexts, may not specifically target the need to stimulate breathing in a neonate. For instance, patting the back gently may not provide enough stimulation, holding the neonate upright does not directly encourage the respiratory process, and oxygen administration is typically reserved for situations where the neonate is not breathing adequately or is in respiratory distress. Thus, rubbing and massaging the back stands out as the most effective method in this scenario.