The pulse and respiratory rates vary significantly across different age groups: adults, children, and infants.
Pulse Rates:
- Adults: Typically range from 60 to 100 beats per minute (bpm). A steady pulse is characteristic of a mature cardiovascular system.
- Children (ages 1-10): Range from 70 to 120 bpm. Higher than adults due to increased metabolic demands related to growth and activity levels.
- Infants (under 1 year): Can range from 100 to 160 bpm. Infants have a higher heart rate to support their rapid growth and development.
Respiratory Rates:
- Adults: Normal range is 12 to 20 breaths per minute. Adults have a more efficient respiratory system capable of deeper breaths.
- Children (ages 1-10): Range from 20 to 30 breaths per minute. Their smaller lung capacity requires quicker, shallower breaths.
- Infants: Can be between 30 to 60 breaths per minute. This high rate is necessary for their high oxygen demands and smaller lung volume.
In summary, infants have the highest pulse and respiratory rates, followed by children, with adults having the lowest rates. These differences reflect the physiological demands of growth and development across the age spectrum.