Newborn Vital Signs
The normal heart rate range for a newborn.
120–160 bpm
This reflex occurs when a newborn turns their head toward a touch on the cheek.
Rooting reflex
This scoring system evaluates the newborn at 1 and 5 minutes after birth.
Apgar score
This injection prevents bleeding problems in newborns.
Vitamin K injection
Newborns should feed approximately every ___ to ___ hours.
2–3 hours
The normal respiratory rate range for a newborn.
30–60 breaths/min
This reflex causes the newborn to grasp a finger placed in the palm.
Palmar grasp reflex
The five components measured in the Apgar score.
Heart rate, respiratory effort, muscle tone, reflex irritability, color
This eye ointment prevents gonorrheal infection in newborns.
Erythromycin ointment
The first milk produced by the mother that is rich in antibodies.
Colostrum
The normal temperature range for a newborn in Fahrenheit.
97.7–99.5°F (36.5–37.5°C)
This reflex occurs when the infant suddenly extends arms and legs when startled.
Moro reflex
This head swelling crosses suture lines and is caused by pressure during birth.
Caput succedaneum
The safest sleep position for newborns.
Back (supine) sleeping
This vitamin is recommended as a supplement for breastfed infants.
Vitamin D
A normal oxygen saturation level for a healthy newborn after transition.
95–100%
This reflex helps the newborn begin feeding.
Sucking reflex
This type of head swelling does NOT cross suture lines.
Cephalohematoma
This screening test is done shortly after birth to detect metabolic disorders.
Newborn metabolic screening / PKU test
A newborn should have at least this many wet diapers per day after day 4.
6-8 wet diapers
This breathing pattern is normal in newborns and includes pauses up to 20 seconds.
Periodic breathing
This reflex causes the infant to step when held upright with feet touching a surface.
Stepping reflex
This soft spot located on the top of the newborn’s head normally closes around 12–18 months.
Anterior fontanel
This method of placing the newborn on the parent’s chest helps regulate temperature and promote bonding.
Skin-to-skin contact
This reflex allows the newborn to coordinate sucking, swallowing, and breathing.
Suck Reflex