In a stable term neonate, which combination best represents normal heart rate and respiratory rate?

• A. 180–210 bpm; 40–70 breaths/min
• B. 100–140 bpm; 20–40 breaths/min
• C. 120–160 bpm; 30–60 breaths/min
• D. 80–120 bpm; 25–50 breaths/min

Answer: (C)

Normal resting heart rate for a healthy term newborn is about 120–160 beats per minute, and normal respiratory rate is roughly 30–60 breaths per minute. This combination matches those typical values, indicating a stable term neonate at rest. Values outside this range can signal issues: a heart rate in the 180–210 range is much higher than expected at rest and can occur with distress or agitation, while a respiratory rate of 20–40 breaths per minute is relatively low for a newborn, who typically breathes a bit faster. A heart rate as low as 80–120 would be bradycardic for a term infant and could indicate problems such as hypoxia. So the 120–160 bpm with 30–60 breaths per minute best represents normal vitals for a stable term newborn.