Paediatric Vital Signs
by
Introduction
Accurate assessment of vital signs in children is critical in detecting illness severity and guiding clinical decisions. Normal ranges vary significantly by age, making age-specific reference values essential.
Visual Summary
| Age Group | Heart Rate | Respiratory Rate | Blood Pressure |
|---|---|---|---|
| Neonates (0-28 days) | 120-160 | 30-60 | 60–80/40–50 |
| Infants (1–12 months) | 100-160 | 25-50 | 70–100/50–65 |
| Toddlers (1–3 years) | 90-150 | 20-30 | 80–110/55–70 |
| Preschool (3–5 years) | 80-140 | 20-25 | 80–110/55–75 |
| School-Age (6–12 years) | 70-120 | 15-25 | 90–120/60–80 |
| Adolescents (13–18 years) | 60-100 | 12-20 | 100–120/65–85 |
Clinical Considerations
- Heart Rate: Elevated rates may indicate fever, dehydration, pain, or distress. Low rates may indicate serious illness, particularly in neonates and infants.
- Respiratory Rate: Elevated rates can suggest respiratory illness, metabolic disorders, or sepsis.
- Blood Pressure: Hypotension may indicate shock or severe illness, while hypertension requires investigation for renal or cardiovascular issues.
Summary
- Vital signs differ widely across age groups.
- Accurate assessment relies on knowing age-specific normal ranges.
- Deviations require prompt clinical evaluation and management.