Final answer:
When an apnea monitor alarm signals, the nurse must do an immediate assessment and provide tactile stimulation to the infant; if there is no response, begin resuscitation and emergency protocols. The risk of prolonged apnea is significant, warranting rapid intervention, which includes the understanding of the monitor's electromagnetic induction technology and adherence to Apgar score guidelines.
Step-by-step explanation:
When an apnea monitor sounds an alarm after a cessation of respirations, the nurse must first quickly assess the infant to determine if the alarm is true or false. Immediate assessment includes checking for breathing and heart rate, and providing tactile stimulation to encourage resumption of breathing if required. If the infant does not respond or is clearly in distress, the nurse should begin resuscitation efforts immediately and follow protocols for emergency response such as summoning more help and potentially administering CPR if trained and indicated.
Considering the dangers associated with a cessation of breath longer than 20 seconds, such as the risk for SID, stroke, heart failure, and tiredness, the nurse's quick and accurate response to the alarm is crucial. Furthermore, this underscores the importance of understanding the function of the apnea monitor, which operates on the principle of electromagnetic induction, and how it aids in the early detection of apnea events.
Additionally, taking into account the Apgar criteria which include respiration as a critical measure, a rapid response to apnea can be the difference between stable conditions and medical emergencies in infants.