Which type of respirations should a nurse expect to observe in a healthy newborn?

In healthy newborns, abdominal and irregular respirations are expected due to their developing respiratory systems. Newborns typically exhibit a diaphragmatic breathing pattern, which means that their abdomen rises and falls more noticeably than their chest during respiration. This is a normal physiological characteristic, as newborns primarily rely on their diaphragm for breathing.

Additionally, the irregularity of their breathing is common and can be attributed to several factors, including sleep cycles and the transition from intrauterine to extrauterine life. This irregular pattern often includes pauses in breathing, which is generally harmless and resolves as the infant matures.

This understanding of newborn respiration is critical for assessing their well-being and development. Recognizing normal respiratory characteristics helps nurses identify potential issues early and provide appropriate care.