Which statement reflects the best practice for nursing care of a newborn who has been exposed to meconium-stained fluid?

For a newborn exposed to meconium-stained fluid, suctioning immediately if the infant is not crying is crucial in ensuring that the airway is cleared of any potential obstruction from the meconium. When a newborn inhales or aspirates meconium during delivery, the risk of meconium aspiration syndrome increases, which can compromise the baby’s respiratory function. Suctioning the airway can prevent meconium from obstructing the airway and allow for adequate ventilation and oxygenation, especially if the infant is not demonstrating effective respiratory effort indicated by crying.

In this context, the importance of immediate action is underscored by the potential for serious complications associated with meconium-stained fluid exposure. Timely suctioning helps to promote better outcomes by addressing the airway needs of the infant right away, reducing the likelihood of respiratory distress.

The other options, while relevant to various aspects of newborn care, do not directly address the immediate management needs of an infant with meconium exposure. Regular assessment of the heart rate, preparing for resuscitation, and observing for hyperbilirubinemia are important aspects of overall newborn care but they do not take precedence over the need to clear potential airway obstructions in a newborn with meconium-st