What is the typical heart rate range for a newborn infant?

• A. 60-100
• B. 100-160
• C. 140-180
• D. 180-210

Answer: (B)

Newborns have naturally rapid heart rates due to high metabolic needs and immature autonomic regulation. The typical resting heart rate for a newborn is about 100–160 beats per minute. This range reflects normal baseline cardiac activity in the first days of life. Rates falling below 100 bpm would be bradycardia and could indicate perfusion or oxygenation problems, while sustained rates above 160 bpm at rest suggest tachycardia and possible distress. It’s normal for the rate to rise transiently when the infant cries or is active, sometimes into the 180s, but the resting range that fits healthy newborn physiology is 100–160 bpm.