What is the normal heart rate for an asleep infant?

The normal heart rate for an asleep infant typically ranges from 80 to 120 beats per minute. This range is appropriate for infants who are resting or asleep, as their metabolic demands decrease, leading to a slightly lower heart rate compared to when they are awake and active. Pediatric assessment guidelines indicate that during sleep, heart rates can stabilize in this lower range, which reflects the body's reduced physiological demands during rest.

The correct answer aligns with these guidelines and provides a clear understanding of normal physiological responses in infants. Recognizing this normal range is crucial for healthcare providers when assessing an infant's cardiovascular status. Identifying deviations from this range can aid in diagnosing potential health issues promptly. Thus, having a firm grasp of the expected heart rates during different states (awake versus asleep) is essential in clinical practice.