How does the normal respiratory rate for infants differ from that of children aged 3-7?

Infants typically have a higher normal respiratory rate compared to children aged 3-7 years. This difference is due to several physiological factors. Infants possess smaller lung volumes and more rapid metabolic rates, which necessitate a higher breathing rate to meet their oxygen demands and adequately expel carbon dioxide.

The normal respiratory rate for infants is generally between 30 to 60 breaths per minute, while for children ages 3 to 7, it ranges from about 20 to 30 breaths per minute. This decrease in respiratory rate with age reflects the maturation of the respiratory system as children grow, allowing for more efficient gas exchange and greater lung capacity. Understanding these differences is essential for healthcare providers when assessing respiratory health and function in different age groups.