Vital Signs Monitoring
1. Heart Rate
a. Heart rate can be checked using a neonatal stethoscope.
b. Make sure that the bell is disinfected with 70% alcohol before using a new patient.
c. Take heart rate in one full minute. Normal heart rate is 120-160 bpm.
2. Respiratory Rate
a. Respiratory rate can be taken by visual or tactile.
b. Slightly open the flanella used to wrap an infant, then take the respirations in one full minute. You will be able to see the rise and fall of the chest.
c. Normal respiratory rate is 40-60 cpm.
3. Temperature
a. The temperature will determine if the neonate has hyperthermia or hypothermia.
b. Check the temperature with a digital thermometer via the axilla or rectum.
c. Normal temperature is 36.5°C – 37.5°C.
4. Record appropriately.
a. Heart rate can be checked using a neonatal stethoscope.
b. Make sure that the bell is disinfected with 70% alcohol before using a new patient.
c. Take heart rate in one full minute. Normal heart rate is 120-160 bpm.
2. Respiratory Rate
a. Respiratory rate can be taken by visual or tactile.
b. Slightly open the flanella used to wrap an infant, then take the respirations in one full minute. You will be able to see the rise and fall of the chest.
c. Normal respiratory rate is 40-60 cpm.
3. Temperature
a. The temperature will determine if the neonate has hyperthermia or hypothermia.
b. Check the temperature with a digital thermometer via the axilla or rectum.
c. Normal temperature is 36.5°C – 37.5°C.
4. Record appropriately.