What is the normal respiratory rate range for a healthy newborn?

What is the normal respiratory rate range for a healthy newborn?

• A. 60-90
• B. 15-30
• C. 90-120
• D. 30-60

Answer: (D)

Newborns breathe faster than older children and adults because of their higher metabolic rate and immature lungs. A healthy newborn typically has a respiratory rate of about 30 to 60 breaths per minute. Breathing can be irregular, and brief pauses (periodic breathing) up to a few seconds are common and usually normal, especially during sleep. To assess accurately, count breaths for a full minute. If the rate consistently exceeds 60 or drops well below 30, it may indicate a problem that requires evaluation.

Newborns breathe faster than older children and adults because of their higher metabolic rate and immature lungs. A healthy newborn typically has a respiratory rate of about 30 to 60 breaths per minute. Breathing can be irregular, and brief pauses (periodic breathing) up to a few seconds are common and usually normal, especially during sleep. To assess accurately, count breaths for a full minute. If the rate consistently exceeds 60 or drops well below 30, it may indicate a problem that requires evaluation.