Up to 10% of newborns (79K/yr in United Kingdom, 13 million/yr worldwide) require some form of resuscitation at birth. It is estimated that approximately 7 million babies worldwide, especially the premature group, will require more advanced resuscitation. The correct, structured management of the resuscitation in the few 'golden' minutes after birth is critical to prevent significant morbidity (e.g. cerebral palsy due to asphyxiation) or death. There is strong evidence that standardised resuscitation training and algorithms significantly improve newborn outcomes and could reduce mortality by 30% in certain healthcare institution. International newborn resuscitation guidelines state that "a prompt increase in heart rate remains the most sensitive indicator of resuscitation efficacy" and that the stethoscope should be the primary means of assessing heart rate (HR). Provision of an accurate and timely HR value is essential if the best care outcomes are to be achieved. Establishing the HR category allows the resuscitator to decide if the HR is >100 bpm (suggests the baby is well or resuscitation is effective), between 60-100bpm (resuscitation required initially focusing on the airway) or <60bpm (requires much more intensive resuscitation which could include CPR). International guidelines recommend assessing the HR every 30 seconds with a stethoscope to track changes and hence efficacy of resuscitation. However, a number of studies demonstrate that newborn healthcare providers estimate the HR category incorrectly in about 1 in 3 cases, potentially resulting in the incorrect management of the baby. There is now strong evidence linking the need for resuscitation and a poor neurodevelopmental outcome in later childhood. Indeed, a number of large cohort studies have demonstrated that even if a baby requires initial resuscitation, and no further need for on-going care, they are at an increased risk of low intelligence quotient in childhood and are less likely to have paid employment or go to University when adults.