Which action is included in the treatment protocol for a full-term newborn with good tone and breathing?

• A. Intubate and ventilate immediately
• B. Keep newborn warm
• C. Delay suctioning until after birth
• D. Place on the stomach to monitor

Answer: (B)

Keeping the newborn warm is prioritized because thermal protection is essential right after birth, especially for a term infant with good tone and breathing. Newborns lose heat quickly through evaporation, convection, conduction, and radiation, and even brief cooling can raise the baby's oxygen needs and stress the respiratory system. Quick drying, placing a hat, wrapping in a warm blanket, and using a radiant warmer or skin-to-skin contact help prevent hypothermia and support stable breathing and heart rate. Intubation and ventilation are reserved for babies with poor breathing or a dangerously low heart rate, not for those who are breathing well with good tone. Placing the infant on the stomach is not standard practice for monitoring or care, as it can compromise airway and safety. Suctioning isn’t routinely performed in a stable, breathing infant; it’s used only if there are secretions or airway obstructions.