The 5-minute Apgar of a baby delivered by C-section is recorded as 9. The most likely reason for this score is:
Correct Answer: C
Rationale: A 5-minute Apgar score of 9 typically reflects one point deduction, often for color, with cyanosis of the hands and feet (acrocyanosis) being common in newborns, especially post-C-section, due to initial circulation adjustments. Mottling or hemorrhages don't directly score points off, and a respiratory rate of 20-28 is low (normal is 30-60), potentially docking more points. Nurses recognize acrocyanosis as benign, resolving naturally, and use this score to reassure parents while monitoring transition, ensuring no further intervention is needed.