Which of the following assessments is characteristic of a newborn's heart rate?

The characteristic heart rate of a newborn typically ranges from 120 to 160 beats per minute (bpm) when the infant is at rest. This baseline heart rate can elevate to as high as 180 bpm during periods of stimulation or activity, such as feeding or movement. Monitoring the heart rate is crucial in assessing the health and stability of a newborn, as variations can indicate their response to environmental changes, stressors, or interventions.

The response of the heart rate to stimuli is a normal physiological reaction in newborns, reflecting adequate autonomic regulation and the capability of the cardiovascular system to respond effectively to increased metabolic demands, such as those caused by a feeding or other activities. This is vital for nurses to understand when assessing the overall health of a neonate in the low-risk NICU setting, as it can inform clinical decision-making regarding monitoring and intervention.

In contrast to the correct response, a heart rate of 60-100 bpm at rest would be significantly lower than the normal range for newborns and is more characteristic of older children or adolescents at rest. A resting heart rate of 80-120 bpm during sleep is also not typical for newborns, as their baseline is generally higher. Similarly, a heart rate over 200 bpm during activity