A nurse is preparing to bathe a full-term newborn for the first time since birth. Which of the following should the nurse do?

Explanation

• The newborn's vital signs should be stable to prevent complications.

• The newborn's body temperature should be at least 36.5° C (97.7° F), and the sponge bath should be given under a radiant heat source to prevent excessive heat loss.

• Gloves should be worn when assessing or caring for a newborn before the first bath to prevent exposure to bloodborne pathogens. Standard Precautions require handwashing before any infant care, but gloves are to be worn if there is risk of contact with body fluids (such as with diaper changes or circumcision care).

• Medicated soap and scrubbing can irritate the newborn's skin and cause abrasions.

• The nurse does not need to wait until the newborn's first void.

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