The newborn is having occasional gasping respirations with a heart rate of 90 beats per minute. Skin color is cyanotic with poor muscle tone. Interpreting relevant clinical data in this scenario, what problems are possible? Select all that apply.
Correct Answer: C
Rationale: The correct answer is C: The newborn is experiencing respiratory distress. Gasping respirations, low heart rate, cyanotic skin, and poor muscle tone are indicative of respiratory distress in a newborn. Gasping is an abnormal breathing pattern seen in severe respiratory distress. A low heart rate is a compensatory response to decreased oxygen levels. Cyanotic skin color indicates poor oxygenation. Poor muscle tone can be a sign of inadequate oxygen delivery to tissues.
Explanation for other choices:
A: The newborn may be hypothermic due to poor temperature regulation, but the primary concern in this scenario is respiratory distress.
B: Being full term does not directly explain the newborn's clinical presentation, so it is not a likely cause.
D: Anemia could contribute to poor oxygen delivery, but the clinical presentation suggests a more acute issue related to respiratory distress.