Which finding should a nurse report when assessing a 1-hour-old newborn?

Reporting generalized petechiae in a 1-hour-old newborn is important due to the potential implications for the infant's health. Petechiae, which are small red or purple spots on the skin that result from bleeding underneath, can indicate a variety of underlying issues. In a newborn, this could be a sign of several serious conditions, including infection, coagulation disorders, or underlying hematologic issues such as thrombocytopenia (low platelet count). This condition requires further evaluation and intervention because it may be associated with conditions such as neonatal sepsis or other abnormalities that could compromise the newborn's well-being.

In contrast, the presence of a strong grasp reflex is a normal finding in newborns and indicates that the infant's neurological system is functioning appropriately. Similarly, a heart rate of 160 bpm falls within the normal range for a newborn, which typically averages between 120-160 bpm during wakefulness. Good muscle tone is also a reassuring finding and demonstrates that the infant is likely healthy and functioning well in terms of neurological and muscle development. Each of these latter findings supports overall normal assessment parameters in a newborn.