Question

The practical nurse takes Sandu's vital signs. Which of the following would be normal for a 1-week-old infant?

a) Heart rate 100 bpm, respirations 26 breaths per minute, blood pressure 44 mm Hg systolic
b) Heart rate 165 bpm, respirations 65 breaths per minute, blood pressure 94 mm Hg systolic
c) Heart rate 140 bpm, respirations 40 breaths per minute, blood pressure 70 mm Hg systolic
d) Heart rate 130 bpm, respirations 32 breaths per minute, blood pressure 100 mm Hg systolic

Answer 1

The correct answer for the normal vital signs of a 1-week-old infant is option c) Heart rate 140 bpm, respirations 40 breaths per minute, blood pressure 70 mm Hg systolic, as it falls within the normal ranges for a newborn.

Step-by-step explanation:

The normal vital signs for a 1-week-old infant would be:

• Heart rate: Approximately 120-160 beats per minute (bpm)
• Respirations: Approximately 30-60 breaths per minute
• Blood pressure: Average systolic readings might be in the range of 50-70 mm Hg

Option c) Heart rate 140 bpm, respirations 40 breaths per minute, blood pressure 70 mm Hg systolic falls within the normal ranges for a newborn's vital signs, making this the correct answer.

It's important to consider that specific normal ranges can vary based on the source and that newborn vital signs are checked regularly, as they are critical in assessing a newborn's health status.