After performing hand hygiene and donning gloves for a heel stick on a newborn, what should the nurse do next?

The correct answer emphasizes the importance of preparing the newborn's heel for the heel stick procedure effectively. Wrapping the heel with a cloth that has been moistened with warm water helps to increase blood flow to the area. This enhanced circulation can make the heel stick more successful and less traumatic for the newborn. Sufficiently warming the heel can promote better blood flow, making it easier to obtain a blood sample with minimal discomfort.

In clinical practice, the preparation of the site is crucial, particularly in newborns, as their veins can be small and difficult to access. By taking the step to warm the heel, the nurse not only prepares the site but also prioritizes the newborn's comfort and safety during the procedure.

Other actions, such as stabilizing the newborn in a warmer or administering glucose gel, may not directly contribute to improving the success of the heel stick at this point and could divert attention from the preparation needed for the stick procedure.