Which of the following is a sign of cold stress in a newborn?

• A. Decreased respiratory rate
• B. Increased respiratory rate
• C. Weak cry
• D. Elevated body temperature

Answer: (B)

Increased respiratory rate is indeed a sign of cold stress in a newborn. When an infant experiences cold stress, their body attempts to maintain a stable temperature and respond to the cold environment by increasing metabolic activity. This increased metabolic demand leads to an elevated respiratory rate as the infant tries to produce heat through metabolic processes and to obtain more oxygen, which is essential for energy production.

Additionally, the infant's body triggers mechanisms to adapt to the lower temperatures. Increased respiratory rate is one of the physiological responses observed as the body reacts to cold exposure. This response can help the newborn maintain body temperature closer to the ideal range despite the environmental stressor.

The other choices do not correctly indicate cold stress. A decreased respiratory rate would typically suggest an issue with the infant’s well-being rather than a response to cold. A weak cry might indicate problems such as exhaustion or underlying health issues but does not directly signal cold stress. An elevated body temperature, on the other hand, would suggest hyperthermia, not response to cold stress.