What strategy should the nurse employ when a neonate shows signs of distress to alleviate symptoms?

Encouraging skin-to-skin contact is a strategy that has been shown to effectively alleviate signs of distress in neonates. This practice, often referred to as kangaroo care, allows the infant to feel the warmth, heartbeat, and smell of their parent, which can significantly enhance the newborn's comfort and promote emotional bonding. Skin-to-skin contact has physiological benefits, including stabilization of the infant's heart rate, respiratory patterns, and body temperature, as well as promoting breastfeeding and reducing crying.

This method is particularly beneficial since it creates a calming effect that can alleviate signs of distress in the neonate. The close physical presence can help regulate the infant's stress levels and ultimately support better outcomes in terms of development and attachment. Overall, skin-to-skin contact is an effective intervention that addresses the emotional and physiological needs of distressed neonates.