Cardiovascular System
The normal pulse rate of a newborn is 120 to 140 beats/minute. A persistent heart rate of less than 100 or more than 160 beats/minute is a cause for concern.
Absence of peripheral pulses, especially the femorals, suggests coarctation of the aorta.
Normal blood pressure is about 60/30 mm of Hg at term.
Transient murmurs are often heard after birth, but the presence of a loud murmur, heart sounds that are difficult to hear or are heard louder on the right side of the chest, or central cyanosis suggest a significant cardiac abnormality.
