What is a normal respiratory rate and heart rate for a newborn?

• A. 60–90 breaths per minute; 110–160 beats per minute
• B. 30–60 breaths per minute; 110–160 beats per minute
• C. 20–40 breaths per minute; 90–120 beats per minute
• D. 10–20 breaths per minute; 70–100 beats per minute

Answer: (B)

Newborns have higher normal ranges for both breathing and heart rate due to their physiology. The typical resting respiratory rate is about 30–60 breaths per minute, and the typical resting heart rate is about 110–160 beats per minute. These values reflect the newborn’s high metabolic needs and developing lungs.

The option that lists 30–60 breaths per minute for respiration and 110–160 beats per minute for heart rate aligns with these established norms. The other choices show either an excessively fast or slow breathing rate or a heart-rate range outside what is expected for a healthy newborn, making them less appropriate. In clinical practice, you count for a full minute, and heart rate can vary with activity or crying, but resting values generally fit this range.