What is an important immediate care step for a newborn showing signs of respiratory distress?

In the context of managing a newborn exhibiting respiratory distress, initiating chest compressions is an appropriate response if the newborn is also demonstrating signs of cardiovascular instability, such as bradycardia (heart rate less than 100 beats per minute) or ineffective breathing. In this critical situation, the primary focus is on the assessment of the newborn's airway and breathing.

If there is inadequate circulation alongside the respiratory distress, chest compressions are necessary to support blood flow and maintain perfusion to vital organs. This intervention is consistent with neonatal resuscitation guidelines, which emphasize the importance of quickly addressing both respiratory and cardiac functions when a newborn is in distress.

While providing tactile stimulation can help in some situations, it is not sufficient alone for severe respiratory distress. Assessing for birth injuries is important in the overall evaluation but does not immediately address the urgent need for respiratory support. Administering intravenous fluids may be necessary later in the care process, particularly if the infant shows signs of dehydration or requires further intervention, but it is not a first-line response for respiratory distress.