When and how should you provide nutritional support to a resuscitated newborn?

Nutritional support for a resuscitated newborn should be provided as soon as the infant is deemed stable, typically starting within the first few hours after birth. This approach is critical because early nutrition can support normal physical growth and development, and can help prevent potential complications, especially in newborns who have undergone resuscitation. During the resuscitation process, infants may experience physiological stress that increases their energy and nutrient requirements.

Providing nutrition with breast milk or formula aligns with the recommendations from organizations focused on newborn care, which emphasize the importance of early feeding opportunities. Thus, starting nutritional support early not only contributes to the immediate recovery of the infant but also supports longer-term health outcomes.

The other choices do not align with the best practices for neonatal care. Feeding immediately after birth without assessment could pose risks if the newborn requires additional medical attention. Waiting only until there are signs of hunger may delay necessary nutritional support, while delaying all nutrition for 12 hours is contrary to the principles of early feeding, which are crucial for maintaining metabolic functions and supporting the overall health of a newborn.