During transport, what is crucial for maintaining an infant's body temperature?

The use of temperature regulation blankets is critical for maintaining an infant's body temperature during transport. These blankets are designed to provide a controlled and consistent heat source, which helps to prevent hypothermia, a common concern in newborns and infants who may not be able to sufficiently regulate their own body temperature.

Temperature regulation blankets can effectively provide warmth while allowing for safe and comfortable transport. They typically use technology that monitors the infant's temperature and adjusts the level of warmth accordingly, ensuring that the infant remains in a stable thermal environment. This kind of proactive approach is essential in neonatal and pediatric transport scenarios, where maintaining normothermia is vital for the infant's health.

Other options, such as the use of heating pads or adjusting ambient room temperature, may not provide the same level of control and safety. Heating pads can pose a risk of overheating or burns, while simple adjustments to room temperature may not effectively address the immediate needs of the infant during transit. Prolonged exposure to sunlight can also be harmful and may lead to overheating or other complications. Therefore, temperature regulation blankets represent the most effective and safe method for maintaining an infant's body temperature during transport.