Question

When the baby stays with the mother for initial steps after birth, what should be monitored to determine if additional interventions are required?

-breathing
-blood pressure
-temperature
-tone and activity
-color

Answer 1

The Apgar score evaluates a newborn's transition to the outside world, assessing five criteria: skin color, heart rate, reflex, muscle tone, and respiration; scores below 7 may warrant medical attention.

Step-by-step explanation:

Immediately after birth, it is essential to monitor a baby using the Apgar score, which evaluates five criteria: skin color, heart rate, reflex, muscle tone, and respiration. Each criterion is scored on a scale from 0 to 2, with assessments conducted at 1 minute and again at 5 minutes post-birth. These scores are added together, providing an Apgar score out of a possible 10. High scores suggest the baby is adjusting well to life outside the womb, while lower scores may indicate distress and a possible need for intervention.

Of the five criteria, heart rate and respiration are critical and poor scores for these may require immediate medical attention. A total score below 7, especially at the 5-minute mark, generally suggests that medical assistance might be necessary. A score below 5 is considered an emergency. An Apgar score of 8 or above is regarded as normal for a healthy newborn.