Final answer:
b. Have improved oxygen saturation
Babies with poor cardiac output may experience bradycardia, which indicates that the heart is not pumping enough blood, leading to insufficient oxygenation of tissues and possible medical distress. This condition can be evaluated using the Apgar score, which measures vital signs at birth.
Step-by-step explanation:
Babies with very poor cardiac output are likely to experience various symptoms due to the insufficient oxygenation of their tissues. Considering the options provided, babies with poor cardiac output may experience bradycardia, which refers to a slower than normal heart rate. This can be a sign that the heart is struggling to pump enough blood to meet the body's needs. A bradycardia in newborns is significant and may indicate that emergency medical attention is necessary, especially if it is accompanied by other signs of distress.
In the context of the Apgar score, which assesses the health of newborns immediately after birth, heart rate and respiration are the most critical components. A low Apgar score suggests the need for immediate intervention. A score of below 7 at 5 minutes after birth typically prompts medical assistance, and a score below 5 indicates an emergency. Newborns with a very poor cardiac output will not exhibit increased activity levels, have improved oxygen saturation, or display a normal respiratory rate, but rather are likely to have decreased activity and may require intervention to support breathing and circulation.