Which of the following would be an acceptable vacuum pressure for suctioning a full-term neonate?

• A. 30 mmHg
• B. 45 mmHg
• C. 55 mmHg
• D. 70 mmHg

Answer: (D)

When suctioning a full-term neonate, the aim is to remove secretions effectively without injuring delicate airway tissues or causing drops in oxygen or heart rate. Neonates require only gentle negative pressure; excessive suction can cause mucosal trauma, bradycardia, or hypoxemia. In practice, the acceptable vacuum range for neonatal suctioning is modest, roughly around 60–100 mmHg, with many clinicians using about 60–80 mmHg as a safe, effective target. The option of 70 mmHg sits squarely in this safe window, providing enough suction to clear secretions while minimizing risk.

The other values are outside the typical safe and effective neonate range: pressures as low as 30–45 mmHg may be insufficient to remove secretions promptly, and 55 mmHg is borderline for effectiveness.