What is the immediate intervention for a 24-hour-old infant who regurgitates and turns cyanotic?

Study for the Licensed Practical Nurse (LPN) Exit Exam. Practice with flashcards and multiple choice questions, each question comes with hints and explanations. Get ready to excel in your LPN exit exam!

For a 24-hour-old infant who regurgitates and turns cyanotic, the immediate intervention of suctioning the oral and nasal passages is crucial. This action addresses the potential airway obstruction caused by mucus, regurgitated feedings, or other material that may block the infant's airway. The infant's turn to cyanosis indicates a lack of adequate oxygenation, which can be exacerbated by airway compromise. By suctioning, you ensure that the airway is clear, allowing for better oxygen flow and aiding in the infant’s overall respiratory status.

In this situation, clearing the airway takes precedence over other interventions. Administering oxygen is typically a response to insufficient oxygen levels rather than a first-line action in this scenario. Calling for a pediatrician is essential after addressing immediate needs but is not the first step. Reassuring the parents is important for emotional support, but it does not address the immediate health threat the infant is facing. Therefore, suctioning the oral and nasal passages effectively responds to the acute needs of the infant, making it the appropriate intervention.

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