What is one of the most critical times to check the newborn's heart rate?

Checking the newborn's heart rate immediately after birth is crucial because it provides essential information about the infant's transition from intrauterine to extrauterine life. At this stage, the baby's physiological adaptation to breathing air and establishing circulatory function is paramount.

Right after birth, medical professionals assess the newborn's heart rate as part of the Apgar scoring system, which helps to determine the infant's immediate health status. A normal heart rate at this time is a positive indicator that the newborn is responding well to birth and does not require immediate resuscitation or intervention. Monitoring the heart rate immediately helps identify any potential issues that may require prompt medical attention, such as respiratory distress or cardiac anomalies.

Other times, such as before discharge from the hospital or during feeding and bathing, are also important for monitoring the overall health and wellness of the infant but do not carry the same urgency as checking the heart rate immediately after birth, when critical information regarding the infant's stability and wellbeing is obtained.