What should caregivers do if a newborn shows signs of respiratory distress?

When a newborn shows signs of respiratory distress, the most appropriate action is to administer oxygen immediately. Newborns are particularly vulnerable to respiratory issues due to their small size and underdeveloped respiratory systems. Signs of respiratory distress in infants can include rapid breathing, grunting, flaring nostrils, or retractions of the chest wall.

Providing supplemental oxygen helps to ensure that the baby receives adequate oxygen supply, which is critical in preventing hypoxia, or low oxygen levels in the blood. This can be particularly essential during emergencies where time is of the essence, as it stabilizes the newborn's condition until further medical help can be provided.

If caregivers were to wait for the doctor to arrive, it could lead to a worsening of the baby's condition due to insufficient oxygenation during a critical time. Flicking the feet or placing the baby in a warm area would not address the immediate need for oxygen; while warmth can be important for a newborn’s overall care, it does not replace the need for adequate respiratory support when distress is evident.