Newborn vital signs

[sfstudentnurse]

I just started my maternity rotation, and I am having a hard time counting newborns heart rate and respiration for a full minute. The heart rate is so fast, that I feel like I miss beats, or lose count. And I'm having a heard time seeing their breaths, especially when they are being fussy. Does anyone have any advice or suggestions for me?

Thanks!

[BacktotheBeach, ADN, BSN, RN]

It is really hard. My instructor told us to tap it with our fingers. It does get easier to count it the more you do it.

For the RR, put your hand on their abdomen or just watch the tummy and its easier! And its almost impossible if they are crying. Do this first before you get them roused and upset if at all possible.

[mariethehawc]

it takes a some practice to get used to it, at first i found i had to listen for a little bit to get the rhythm

i found it generally easier to do vitals when the baby was sleeping, if possible :)