Which of the following cord blood values of a full-term newborn is considered optimal?

In assessing the optimal cord blood platelet count for a full-term newborn, it's important to recognize that a normal range for platelet counts in neonates is generally considered to be between 150,000 to 450,000/mm³. The chosen answer indicates a platelet count of 160,000/mm³, which falls comfortably within this normal range, suggesting healthy hematologic function and appropriate platelet production.

This value reflects sufficient platelet availability for critical functions such as clotting, which is vital in the immediate postnatal period as the newborn's body begins to transition from fetal to extrauterine life. This count provides a good buffer against potential bleeding complications and aligns with optimal health indicators for a full-term infant.

Values below this range, such as 140,000/mm³ or 120,000/mm³, raise concerns regarding thrombocytopenia, which could lead to increased risks of bleeding. On the other hand, while 170,000/mm³ is technically within the normal range, it is higher than the value defined as optimal for this scenario. Therefore, 160,000/mm³ is seen as the most suitable reflection of an optimal, healthy state for a newborn's platelet count in cord blood.