What is the normal heart rate for a newborn?

The normal heart rate for a newborn typically ranges from 120 to 160 beats per minute. This elevated heart rate reflects the higher metabolic demands of infants, who need to ensure adequate blood flow and oxygen delivery as they grow and develop rapidly in those early weeks of life.

Newborns have a naturally higher heart rate compared to older children and adults, and understanding this range is crucial for healthcare providers when assessing the cardiovascular status of an infant. Monitoring heart rate can help identify potential health issues early on.

In contrast, the other ranges provided in the options do not align with the established guidelines for newborns. A heart rate of 60 to 100 beats per minute is more typical for adults or older children at rest, while 100 to 120 beats per minute is on the lower end for newborns and might suggest bradycardia under certain circumstances. Similarly, the range of 160 to 180 beats per minute is higher than what's considered normal for a stable newborn at rest, although it may occur temporarily with feeding or crying.