What should the nurse assess in a newborn during the first few hours of life?

The nurse’s assessment of a newborn during the first few hours of life is crucial to ensure the infant's well-being and to identify any immediate health concerns. Vital signs, which include heart rate, respiratory rate, and temperature, provide essential information about the newborn's physiological status. Color is also an important aspect, as it can indicate adequate oxygenation and circulation—observing for normal skin tone and any signs of jaundice is part of this. Additionally, assessing feeding ability is vital, as it helps determine whether the newborn can latch successfully and swallow, which is important for establishing effective feeding and nutrition.

This comprehensive approach ensures that all aspects of the newborn's immediate health are evaluated, allowing for timely interventions if necessary. By focusing on vital signs, color, and feeding ability, the nurse can assess the overall stability and readiness of the newborn for transition from intrauterine to extrauterine life.