What is the first step in resuscitating a newborn who is crying at birth but shows signs requiring attention?

• A. Dry and stimulate him.
• B. Suction his mouth.
• C. Suction his left nostril.
• D. Suction his right nostril.

Answer: (A)

Starting with drying and stimulation is essential because the first goal after birth is to prevent cooling and encourage the newborn to breathe on their own. Drying the baby helps reduce heat loss, which can depress respiration, while a gentle rub or tactile stimulation can prompt the infant to take a deeper, more regular breath. Suctioning the mouth or nose isn’t the immediate step for a crying newborn with signs requiring attention; routine suction isn’t performed unless there’s an airway obstruction or secretions that impede breathing. If the baby continues to show signs of distress after drying and stimulating, you would proceed to airway management and ventilation as needed.