What is a normal respiratory feature you might assess in a newborn?

In newborns, a normal respiratory pattern is characterized by a relatively shorter expiration phase compared to inhalation. The respiratory rate in neonates is typically rapid, ranging from 30 to 60 breaths per minute, and is often irregular due to variations in rhythm. The shorter expiration phase is consistent with the anatomy and physiology of a newborn's respiratory system, which is still developing, and is designed for quick, efficient gas exchange to meet their metabolic demands.

Assessing a normal respiratory feature in a newborn involves looking for signs that align with this understanding. A long expiration phase would deviate from typical patterns, and a newborn's inability to take deep breaths or the presence of abnormal sounds such as coarse rales may signify underlying respiratory issues. Thus, the recognition that a newborn usually has a proportionately longer inhalation and shorter exhalation is critical to identifying normal respiratory function.