What is the first action to take after a newborn is delivered?

The first action to take after a newborn is delivered is to keep the newborn warm. This is crucial because newborns are highly susceptible to hypothermia due to their large surface area relative to their body mass, limited subcutaneous fat, and the transition from the warm environment of the womb to a cooler outside environment.

Immediate warmth helps to stabilize the newborn's temperature, which is essential for proper physiological functioning, including respiration and circulation. This can be achieved using warmed blankets, skin-to-skin contact with the mother, or under a radiant warmer, depending on the setting and available resources.

While cutting the umbilical cord, weighing the baby, or cleaning the baby are important steps that follow the initial stabilization of the infant, they should not take precedence over immediately ensuring that the newborn maintains a stable body temperature. Taking this crucial first step helps minimize complications and supports the newborn's transition to life outside the womb.