A stable term newborn is warm and feeding well. The mother asks for the first bath immediately after birth. Which response is most appropriate?

Correct answer: A. Delay bathing for at least 24 hours when possible

  • A. Delay bathing for at least 24 hours when possible
  • B. Bathe the newborn immediately in cold water
  • C. Remove vernix completely with vigorous rubbing
  • D. Apply talcum powder before the first bath

Explanation

Delaying the first bath helps protect temperature stability, skin barrier function, and early breastfeeding. Vigorous rubbing can injure the skin, cold water promotes heat loss, and talcum powder should not be used because it can be inhaled.

Submitted by a TestUstad contributor and published by the TestUstad editorial teamLast updated
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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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