Which of the following is a common sign of respiratory distress in a newborn?

A common sign of respiratory distress in a newborn is the presence of blue lips, also known as cyanosis. Cyanosis indicates that there is inadequate oxygenation of the blood, which can occur due to respiratory issues, heart problems, or other medical conditions affecting oxygen delivery. In newborns, the presence of blue coloration around the lips suggests that the infant may be experiencing difficulty breathing or that there is not enough oxygen getting into their circulation.

Rapid heart rate, while it can accompany respiratory distress, is more of a compensatory response rather than a direct sign of respiratory distress. Frequent sighing may be present in healthy infants as part of normal behavior rather than indicating distress. Excessive sleepiness can also suggest underlying issues but is not specifically a characteristic sign of respiratory distress. Therefore, blue lips represent a clear, observable sign that necessitates immediate medical evaluation and intervention to address potential respiratory problems.