Question

A nurse is caring for a newborn immediately after delivery. Which of the following interventions should the nurse implement to prevent heat loss by conduction?

A. Dry the newborn with a wet cloth.

B. Place the newborn under a radiant warmer.

C. Swaddle the newborn in a warm blanket.

D. Delay the newborn's first bath.

Answer 1

The nurse should place the newborn under a radiant warmer to prevent heat loss by conduction, as newborns are prone to losing heat quickly and have limited ways to maintain their body temperature.

Step-by-step explanation:

To prevent heat loss by conduction in a newborn immediately after delivery, the correct intervention for the nurse to implement is: B. Place the newborn under a radiant warmer.

Thermoregulation in newborns is critical because they are prone to losing heat quickly. They have a higher surface area to volume ratio compared to adults, immature musculature that limits shivering, underdeveloped nervous systems that react slowly to cold, and minimal subcutaneous fat for insulation. Additionally, helping the newborn maintain body temperature is crucial since their other systems, such as the kidneys, are still immature and inefficient. Conductive heat loss occurs when the baby comes into direct contact with cooler surfaces or objects.

A radiant warmer provides a continuous source of heat, reducing the risk of heat loss and allowing the newborn to maintain a stable body temperature without direct contact. Other options like swaddling in a warm blanket can support heat retention, but they don't directly address the prevention of conductive heat loss as effectively as a radiant warmer does.