Which assessment is a priority for a newborn immediately after birth?

Establishing airway patency and assessing respiratory status is crucial immediately after a newborn's birth because the infant has just transitioned from a controlled environment to a world where breathing independently is essential for survival. Ensuring that the airways are clear allows for adequate gas exchange and can prevent potential complications such as hypoxia.

During this critical period, the newborn may have fluid still present in the airways from birth, and any obstruction can lead to significant respiratory distress. Prioritizing respiratory status includes monitoring for adequate chest rise, respiratory effort, and the presence of any signs of distress. This assessment is fundamental to establishing the general health of the newborn and addressing any immediate needs before proceeding to other assessments and interventions, such as determining the Apgar score, weighing the baby, or bathing.

The other assessments are certainly important but occur after ensuring that the newborn can breathe effectively. For example, while the Apgar score gives vital information about the infant's condition at one minute and five minutes after birth, it would not be meaningful if the newborn is not breathing adequately. Weighing the newborn and providing a bath also come later since they do not address immediate life-sustaining needs.