What is a typical sign of respiratory distress in a neonate?

The typical sign of respiratory distress in a neonate is chest retraction. This phenomenon occurs when the respiratory muscles become strained in an effort to breathe. In infants, the chest wall is soft and flexible, making it more susceptible to retractions, which can manifest as the inward movement of the sternum and the retraction of the intercostal muscles between the ribs during inhalation. When neonates are in respiratory distress, they may also exhibit rapid breathing or grunting, but chest retraction is one of the most visible and indicative signs.

Bradycardia, or a slow heart rate, is not a primary indicator of respiratory distress; it can occur in various conditions but is not specific to respiratory issues. Increased appetite is generally considered a sign of well-being in neonates, and a skin rash is not directly related to respiratory function. Therefore, chest retraction stands out as a clear and concerning sign that indicates the baby is struggling to maintain adequate ventilation and requires immediate evaluation and possible intervention.