The nurse is caring for a term infant immediately following delivery.Which action should the nurse implement to reduce the risk of cold stress?

 

Choice A rationale

Bathing the newborn in warm water and swaddling in 2 blankets is not the best immediate action to prevent cold stress. While keeping the newborn warm is crucial, bathing immediately after birth can lead to rapid heat loss, and swaddling alone may not provide sufficient warmth.

Choice B rationale

Placing the newborn on a radiant warmer is an effective method to prevent cold stress, but it is not as beneficial as skin-to-skin contact, which provides both warmth and bonding. Radiant warmers are used primarily in situations where the infant requires stabilization or when skin-to-skin is not feasible.

Choice C rationale

Maintaining a room temperature above 70° F (21.1° C) helps to create a warmer environment, but it does not address the immediate need to prevent heat loss in the newborn. Room temperature alone may not be adequate to prevent cold stress, especially in preterm or low birth weight infants.

Choice D rationale

Drying off the newborn and placing them skin-to-skin with the mother is highly effective in preventing cold stress. This technique promotes thermal regulation through direct skin contact, which transfers body heat from the mother to the infant, stabilizes body temperature, and supports bonding and breastfeeding.