What is a nursing intervention for encouraging effective breathing in newborns?

Using suction to clear the airway if necessary is a crucial intervention for encouraging effective breathing in newborns. Newborns can often have secretions or mucus in their airways that can impede their ability to breathe efficiently. By using suction, healthcare providers can remove these obstructions, ensuring that the baby has a clear airway to facilitate normal respiratory function. This is especially important immediately after birth, as newborns transition to breathing air for the first time.

Encouraging crying as a means to open airways has some merit since a strong cry can indicate good air exchange and lung expansion. However, relying solely on this method may not be sufficient in situations where the airway is obstructed. Monitoring oxygen levels only after 72 hours is not appropriate, as continuous assessment of oxygen saturation is vital in the immediate postnatal period to ensure the newborn is oxygenating adequately. Delaying feeding to prioritize breathing can be important, but it should be part of a comprehensive approach that often includes active airway management rather than a standalone intervention.

Thus, using suction when necessary is a proactive and effective nursing intervention to support respiratory function in newborns and is aligned with best practices in neonatal care.