If an assessment of an infant 1 minute after birth gives an APGAR score of 5 (4-6), what should the therapist do?

An APGAR score of 5 indicates that the infant is showing some signs of distress but is not in immediate critical condition. Scores between 4 and 6 suggest that while the infant requires attention, they do not necessarily need aggressive intervention at that moment.

In this situation, the appropriate response would be to stimulate the infant, provide warmth, and administer oxygen if necessary. Stimulation helps to encourage the infant to breathe and improve their circulation, while warming is crucial to prevent hypothermia—a common concern for newborns immediately after birth. Administering oxygen is important if the infant is exhibiting signs of respiratory distress or if there are concerns about their oxygen saturation levels.

Monitoring the infant alone would not adequately address the needs implied by the lower APGAR score, as it could lead to the condition worsening without proactive care. Resuscitation may not be necessary unless the infant's condition deteriorates despite initial interventions. Providing sedation is not appropriate in this context, especially since the infant needs stimulation rather than suppression of their neurological responses.

Therefore, by choosing to stimulate, warm, and administer oxygen, the therapist is taking the necessary and appropriate measures to support the infant's transition to extrauterine life effectively.