What is a normal approximate newborn respiratory rate range that a nurse should expect at birth?

• A. 40 breaths per minute.
• B. 58 breaths per minute.
• C. 75 breaths per minute.
• D. 25 breaths per minute.

Answer: (B)

Immediately after birth, a newborn’s lungs are transitioning from fluid-filled to air-filled, so breathing is rapid but the effort is usually uncomplicated. The normal range to expect is roughly 40 to 60 breaths per minute. A rate of 58 breaths per minute sits right inside that window, showing typical adaptation without signs of distress. Rates well below that, like 25, are too slow for a newborn and could indicate inadequate respiratory effort, while rates well above, such as 75, point to tachypnea and potential trouble. So 58 is a solid example of a normal newborn respiratory rate at birth.