primary apnea, a self-limited condition characterized by an absence of respiration. It may follow a blow to the head and is common immediately after birth in the newborn who breathes spontaneously when the carbon dioxide level in the circulation reaches a certain value. Reflexes are present and the heart is beating, but the skin may be pale or blue and muscle tone is diminished. No treatment is necessary, but careful observation, maintenance of body temperature, and oral pharyngeal aspiration are usually performed. Within seconds the newborn usually begins breathing, becomes pinker, moves the arms and legs, and cries. Compare periodic apnea of the newborn, secondary apnea.
