An infant born to an HIV-positive mother is admitted to the nursery. What is the first intervention the nurse should perform?

The first intervention a nurse should perform for an infant born to an HIV-positive mother is to bathe the infant with antimicrobial soap. This action is crucial because it helps to reduce the risk of potential transmission of HIV through contact with maternal blood and body fluids that may be on the infant's skin. Newborns are susceptible to infections, and a thorough bath can clear any contaminants that could pose a health risk.

Although obtaining the infant's footprints and administering vitamin K are important procedures following birth, they are not as immediate in addressing the specific concerns with an infant whose mother is HIV-positive. Measuring head and chest circumference, while a standard part of the infant's assessment, does not provide any immediate protection against potential HIV transmission. Thus, initiating the bathing process with antimicrobial soap is the most critical first step to ensure the infant's safety and well-being.