The infant at birth Flashcards
What are the immediate routine procedures after an infant is born?
Heat conservation measures and drying the infant.
Why is it important to dry the infant immediately after birth?
Drying the infant can often initiate breathing and prevent excessive cooling
When should breathing be assessed in a newborn?
When should breathing be assessed in a newborn?
What should be done if an infant’s breathing is poor after birth?
What should be done if an infant’s breathing is poor after birth?
What position should a well-breathing infant be placed in after birth?
The kangaroo-care position (skin-to-skin) on the mother’s abdomen.
Why is kangaroo care recommended for newborns?
Kangaroo care helps keep newborns warm and facilitates bonding between mother and baby.
When is suctioning of the mouth and pharynx necessary for a newborn?
Suctioning is only necessary if resuscitation is required, not routinely.
What should be done if an infant has a lot of secretions?
Turn the infant on their side to allow secretions to drain naturally.
Why should suctioning with a towel or holding the infant upside down be avoided?
These actions can cause damage or stimulate a vagal response in the infant.
How soon after birth can routine management of the newborn typically be delayed?
Routine management can usually be delayed for 30 minutes while the mother meets her infant.
When is the Apgar score typically done in infants?
The Apgar score is done at one minute after birth for all infants.
Where can the Apgar score be conducted?
The Apgar score can be conducted while the infant is still with the mother.
When should the Apgar score be repeated if the one-minute score is not normal?
The Apgar score should be repeated at five minutes to document any improvement with resuscitation.
Is a five-minute Apgar score necessary if the one-minute score is normal?
No, unless the infant deteriorates, a five-minute assessment is usually not required.
What is the purpose of the Apgar score?
To assess and document the infant’s condition after birth, including their vital signs and overall well-being.
How many criteria are assessed in the Apgar score?
Appearance
Pulse
Grimace
Activity
Respiration
At what minute mark is the Apgar score most commonly performed?
The Apgar score is most commonly performed at one minute after birth
Why is it important to document any improvement in the infant’s condition with resuscitation?
To track the effectiveness of medical interventions and guide further treatment if necessary.
What is the highest possible Apgar score?
10
Why is it advisable to delay clamping the umbilical cord in a newborn?
Delaying clamping allows for blood transfusion from the placenta, improving the infant’s iron stores and increasing blood volume.
What happens to the umbilical arteries in a normal infant shortly after delivery?
The umbilical arteries go into spasm within minutes of delivery.
How long should one wait before clamping the umbilical cord to improve iron stores in the infant?
Waiting one to two minutes after birth can significantly improve the infant’s iron stores.
What can be done if the infant needs to be moved for resuscitation before cord clamping?
Cord milking can be considered as an alternative to immediate clamping.