Question

When performing nursing care for a newborn after birth, which of the following nursing interventions is the highest priority?

a) Checking the newborn's weight

b) Administering vitamin K injection

c) Providing skin-to-skin contact with the mother

d) Assessing the Apgar score

Answer 1

The highest priority nursing intervention for a newborn after birth is assessing the Apgar score, which provides a quick evaluation of the newborn's general wellbeing and any immediate need for medical attention.

Step-by-step explanation:

When performing nursing care for a newborn after birth, the highest priority nursing intervention is d) Assessing the Apgar score. The Apgar test is a simple assessment given to an infant immediately after birth to evaluate its transition from the uterus to the outside world. It assesses five important criteria: appearance (skin color), pulse (heart rate), grimace (reflex), activity (muscle tone), and respiration. This rapid evaluation is critical as it helps determine if the newborn requires immediate medical attention.

While providing skin-to-skin contact with the mother, administering a vitamin K injection, and checking the newborn's weight are all important aspects of postnatal care, they follow in priority after the Apgar score has been assessed and the newborn's immediate health status is determined.