What is the most important technique when assessing a newborn's heart rate?

• A. Quiet the infant before counting the heart rate.
• B. Listen at the apex of the heart.
• C. Count the heart rate for at least one full minute.
• D. Palpate the umbilical cord.

Answer: (C)

Counting for a full minute is essential when evaluating a newborn’s heart rate because it provides an accurate picture of the heart’s activity over a complete interval. A newborn’s rate can change quickly with crying, movement, or sleep, so a short count may miss episodes of rapid or slow heartbeats and might not reveal rhythm issues. To do it well, use a stethoscope and listen at the apex while the infant is calmly supported; the critical step is timing the count for a full 60 seconds and recording the beats observed. A typical resting range is about 110–160 beats per minute, though rates can be higher if the baby is crying or active. If the rate seems outside the expected range, reassess after the infant settles or continue with further assessment as needed.