Question

The nurse observes parents interacting with their newborn shortly after birth. It is most important for the nurse to make which assessment during this observation?

Answer 1

The nurse must assess the newborn using the Apgar test to evaluate the infant's wellbeing and transition from the womb, by scoring skin color, heart rate, reflex, muscle tone, and respiration.

Step-by-step explanation:

It is most important for the nurse to assess the status of the newborn by conducting the Apgar test, shortly after birth to evaluate the infant's transition from the uterus to the outside world. The Apgar test assesses five criteria: skin color, heart rate, reflex, muscle tone, and respiration. Each criterion is assigned a score of 0, 1, or 2, and the scores are added together for a total score out of 10. This score is taken at 1 minute and again at 5 minutes after birth to gauge how well the baby is doing; higher scores suggest a good transition, while lower scores may indicate distress.

Since newborns have sensory preferences that facilitate interaction with caregivers, such as a preference for human faces and their mother's voice, observing interactions can provide insights into the newborn's sensory abilities and reflexes, which is critical for their survival and comfort.