What is the appropriate action if a newborn exhibits persistent cyanosis after birth?

When a newborn exhibits persistent cyanosis after birth, checking the pulse oximeter reading is essential for several reasons. Persistent cyanosis can indicate inadequate oxygenation, which could be due to various underlying conditions such as respiratory distress or congenital heart defects.

Using a pulse oximeter allows the healthcare provider to quickly assess the newborn's oxygen saturation levels in the blood. This information is critical in determining whether the baby requires immediate medical intervention, such as oxygen therapy or further assessment. Monitoring these levels gives a more objective measurement of the infant's respiratory status and helps guide the next steps in care.

Other options focus on different aspects of care. Monitoring feeding practices would be relevant once the immediate airway concerns are resolved. Documenting vital signs is important but may not provide as immediate insight into the cause of the cyanosis as checking the pulse oximeter reading would. Administering IV fluids may be necessary in specific circumstances, but it does not address the immediate concern of potential hypoxia that is indicated by the cyanosis. The priority in this scenario is to assess and respond to the newborn's respiratory needs.