What is one of the first assessments performed for a critically ill newborn?

Assessing the airway and breathing is a critical first assessment performed on a newborn who is critically ill. Ensuring that the airway is clear and that the newborn is able to breathe adequately is essential, as respiratory distress or obstruction can rapidly lead to severe physiological consequences. In the case of a critically ill newborn, immediate assessment of airway patency and breathing effectiveness allows for timely interventions that can stabilize their condition and prevent further deterioration.

While taking the newborn's temperature, evaluating reflexes, and measuring blood glucose levels are all important assessments in a comprehensive evaluation of a newborn's health, they do not take precedence over the immediate need to address airway and breathing issues. Any respiratory compromise is the most urgent concern, as oxygenation is vital for survival. Therefore, airway and breathing assessments are prioritized in newborn life support protocols.