Postpartum Care & Newborn Assessment Flashcards

At 1 minute after birth, a newborn has a heart rate of 90 bpm, blue extremities, weak cry, some flexion, and grimaces with stimulation. What is the APGAR score?

Answer: 6

The newborn scores: HR 1 (90 bpm), color 1 (blue extremities), tone 1 (some flexion), cry 1 (weak), reflex 1 (grimace) = total 5; wait — HR <100=1, color=1 (acrocyanosis), tone=1, cry=1, reflex=1 = 5.

Which finding during a newborn assessment at birth warrants immediate resuscitation?

Answer: Apgar score of 4 at 1 minute

An Apgar score of 4 at 1 minute indicates a depressed neonate requiring prompt resuscitation intervention.

What is the normal respiratory rate range for a term newborn?

Answer: 30–60 breaths/min

A normal respiratory rate for a term neonate is 30–60 breaths per minute; rates above 60 suggest respiratory distress.

A newborn's weight at 5 days of life is 7% below birth weight. How should the midwife respond?

Answer: Continue current feeding support and reassess

Up to 7–10% weight loss in the first week of life is normal; 7% loss warrants close monitoring and feeding support but not immediate supplementation.

Which breastfeeding position is most recommended for a patient recovering from a cesarean birth?

Answer: Football (clutch) hold

The football hold keeps the infant away from the abdominal incision, making it most comfortable for post-cesarean patients.

When should a newborn receive the first hepatitis B vaccine according to the US immunization schedule?

Answer: Within 12 hours of birth if mother is HBsAg-positive; otherwise within 24 hours for all infants

All newborns should receive the first hepatitis B dose within 24 hours of birth; infants born to HBsAg-positive mothers require it within 12 hours along with HBIG.