In a newborn with an Apgar score of 4, what is the priority nursing intervention?

In the context of a newborn with an Apgar score of 4, it indicates that the infant is experiencing significant difficulties transitioning to life outside of the womb. The Apgar score assesses the newborn's condition based on five criteria: appearance, pulse, grimace response, activity, and respiration. A score of 4 reflects a need for immediate medical attention.

Administering "blow-by" oxygen while suctioning is the appropriate priority intervention in this scenario. This approach allows for providing supplemental oxygen to help improve the baby's oxygenation without the need for invasive ventilation or intubation at this stage. "Blow-by" oxygen is a simple method of delivering oxygen to a baby who may be in respiratory distress but does not require immediate intubation, which is suitable for a newborn with a moderately low Apgar score.

While other options may seem relevant, continuing Apgar scoring would not be necessary at this point because the newborn's needs take precedence over repetitive scoring. Transferring the newborn to the NICU is an important consideration for further evaluation and potential interventions, but it is not the immediate priority as supportive measures can be implemented first. Performing cardiopulmonary resuscitation (CPR) would be reserved for more critical situations where