What is nurse's primary critical observation when performing an assessment for determining an Apgar score?
Correct Answer: A
Rationale: Apgar score assesses newborn vitality at 1 and 5 minutes post-birth across five criteria: heart rate, respiration, muscle tone, reflex, color. Heart rate (choice A) is primary; absent (<60 bpm = 0, <100 = 1, >100 = 2) dictates immediate resuscitation, making it the most critical. Respiratory rate (choice B) follows, but weak/absent breathing often ties to heart rate. Meconium (choice C) isn't scored directly, though it flags distress. Moro reflex (choice D) tests tone/reflex, secondary to vitals. A is correct, as heart rate drives initial intervention. Nurses prioritize it, ensuring rapid response to stabilize the infant.
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