What is the priority nursing action before bathing a neonate?

Taking the vital signs is the priority nursing action before bathing a neonate because it allows the nurse to assess the infant's current health status and stability. Monitoring vital signs such as heart rate, respiratory rate, and temperature is crucial, especially in neonates who are more vulnerable to temperature fluctuations and other complications. Bathing can cause a drop in body temperature, so knowing the neonate’s baseline vital signs helps ensure that they are stable enough for a bath, and it allows the nurse to identify any potential issues that may arise during the process.

While feeding the neonate may be important for their nutritional needs, and warming towels is essential for maintaining a comfortable temperature during bathing, assessing vital signs takes precedence. This foundational assessment helps in planning and taking appropriate actions to keep the neonate safe and comfortable throughout the bathing process. Documenting the bath is also important, but it typically comes after ensuring that the neonate is ready and stable for the procedure.