Which of the following is NOT a common intervention to stimulate spontaneous respirations in newborns?

The correct answer highlights that positive pressure ventilations are not typically categorized as an initial intervention to stimulate spontaneous respirations in newborns. In the context of immediate newborn care, the focus is often on encouraging the newborn to breathe independently rather than mechanically assisting them right away.

Common interventions such as suctioning the upper airway help clear any mucous or obstructions that could impede breathing, allowing the newborn a better chance to take their first breaths. Thorough drying with a towel is also critical as it not only helps regulate the baby's temperature but also stimulates skin receptors that may encourage respiratory effort. Tactile stimulation, such as gentle rubbing or tapping of the newborn, serves a similar purpose by encouraging the newborn to initiate breathing on their own.

In contrast, positive pressure ventilations are generally reserved for situations where the newborn does not begin to breathe adequately after these initial efforts have been made. They are employed when there's a clear indication that the newborn is in respiratory distress or has not established effective breathing patterns independently. Therefore, it is not viewed as part of the standard immediate intervention for stimulating spontaneous respiration in newborns.