The FIRST step in thermal protection for the newborn includes–

Correct option is A

Sol. The first step in newborn thermal protection is to thoroughly dry the baby immediately after birth to prevent heat loss through evaporation. Newborns are highly prone to hypothermia due to a large surface area, thin skin, and wet body. Drying stimulates breathing, prevents cold stress, and is crucial before any further intervention.
Explanation of each option:
· (a) Drying the baby thoroughly immediately after birth – Correct Answer. Key action to prevent evaporative heat loss and stimulate the baby's first breath.
· (b) Drying after cord cut – Delay can cause heat loss and hypothermia. Drying must be immediate after birth.
· (c) Covering the baby with a clean cloth – Important, but only after drying. Wrapping a wet baby won’t prevent heat loss.
· (d) Covering with warmed blanket – Helps later in thermal protection, but drying is always the first and most immediate step.