A healthy newborn has brief pauses in breathing lasting 5 seconds, followed by several regular breaths. The colour remains pink, and there is no chest retraction. How should the nurse interpret this finding?
Correct answer: A. Normal periodic breathing
- A. Normal periodic breathing
- B. Central apnea requiring ventilation
- C. Respiratory distress from infection
- D. Obstructive apnea from secretions
Explanation
Short pauses followed by regular breathing can occur as normal periodic breathing in a newborn who remains pink and comfortable. Apnea is more concerning when pauses are prolonged or associated with cyanosis, bradycardia, or poor respiratory effort.
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About Care of the Newborn
Newborn care covers immediate assessment, Apgar scoring, thermal protection, airway management, cord care, identification, vitamin K, early breastfeeding and neonatal resuscitation. It also includes normal newborn findings, prevention of infection, care of premature or low-birth-weight infants, recognition of danger signs, jaundice and safe discharge counselling.
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