What action should a nurse take when assessing a newborn who was born 15 minutes ago?

Counting the respiratory rate for 60 seconds is essential in the immediate assessment of a newborn. After birth, one of the critical aspects of newborn care is to ensure that the infant is breathing adequately. Newborns are at risk for respiratory distress, which can occur due to various reasons, including fluid in the lungs or airway obstructions.

Assessing the respiratory rate provides valuable information about the newborn's respiratory status and allows for early intervention if any abnormalities are noted. A normal respiratory rate for a newborn is typically between 30 to 60 breaths per minute. Taking a full minute for this assessment ensures accuracy and accounts for any variations that might occur if measured over a shorter duration.

Measuring head circumference, performing a heel stick for blood glucose, and administering vitamin K are also important assessments and interventions, but counting the respiratory rate is the immediate priority to confirm that the newborn is establishing effective respiration right after birth.