Normal body temperature of newborn is

Appeared in: NHM UP Staff Nurse-2021 Shift-2nd

Explanation

The standard normal axillary temperature range for a neonate is 36.5°C to 37.5°C.
This temperature range represents a thermoneutral environment, where the baby maintains body temperature with the lowest metabolic rate and oxygen use.
The option 36.5 - 37.4°C is the only choice that fits completely within this accepted normal physiological range.
Newborns have immature thermoregulation, making them susceptible to both hypothermia and hyperthermia, so precise monitoring is crucial.

Option A: This range (36.0 - 36.8°C) dips into what is classified as 'cold stress' or 'mild hypothermia' (36.0°C to 36.4°C), which is not considered normal.
Option C: This range (37.0 - 38.0°C) includes temperatures above 37.5°C, which is the threshold for hyperthermia (fever) in a newborn.
Option D: This range (37.0 - 40.0°C) represents moderate to severe hyperthermia, which is a serious condition for a newborn and far outside the normal range.

Clinical Relevance

Nursing practice connection: This is primarily an exam-oriented knowledge point with limited direct bedside application, so retain Normal newborn body temperature as background academic context rather than a clinical decision trigger.
Nurses must accurately monitor a newborn's temperature as it is a vital indicator of well-being. Hypothermia can lead to hypoglycemia, respiratory distress, and metabolic acidosis.
Maintaining the 'warm chain'—a series of interlinked procedures at birth and afterward—is a key nursing responsibility to prevent heat loss.
Hyperthermia can be a sign of infection (sepsis) or dehydration and requires prompt assessment and intervention.

How to Approach the Question

Identify the core of the question: it asks for the 'normal body temperature' of a 'newborn'.
This is a factual recall question based on standard pediatric vital signs.
Recall the specific physiological range for a neonate's temperature, which is 36.5°C to 37.5°C.
Evaluate each option against this standard range.
Option A is too low.
Option B fits perfectly within the normal range.

Concept Tested & Keywords

QWMmBqATjNBQPkcFgSzMf1

E6 Ghai Essential Pediatrics(pp 26-904 of 913) p. 138-140

E6 Parks TextBook of Preventive & Social Medicine part 2 — Subpart A (pp 1-232 of 464) p. 27-29

E6 Text Book Of Pediatric Nursing 3rd Panchali Pal — Part 1 (pp 36-238 of 713) p. 158-160

Practise the full NHM UP Staff Nurse-2021 Shift-2nd

Attempt every question from this paper in a timed mock, then review the full solution for each one.