Which is an expected sign of distress in a newborn?

Cyanosis is an expected sign of distress in a newborn because it indicates a lack of adequate oxygenation in the blood. When a newborn exhibits cyanosis, their skin and mucous membranes may appear bluish, especially around the lips and fingertips, which can be a sign that the baby is experiencing respiratory distress or other underlying conditions affecting oxygen delivery.

In contrast, clear skin tone, a normal heart rate, and a steady temperature are signs of well-being in a newborn. A clear skin tone generally suggests good oxygenation and blood flow. A normal heart rate indicates that the baby is stable and functioning well cardiovascularly, while a steady temperature indicates proper thermoregulation. Therefore, the presence of cyanosis stands out as a clear indicator of distress that requires immediate attention and evaluation.