Compared to adults, how do the pulse and respiration rates of infants typically compare?

Infants typically have faster pulse and respiration rates compared to adults due to their higher metabolic needs and smaller body size. An infant's heart rate can vary widely but is generally about 120 to 160 beats per minute, which is significantly faster than the adult resting heart rate of 60 to 100 beats per minute. Similarly, respiratory rates for infants are also higher, averaging around 30 to 60 breaths per minute, whereas adults usually breathe around 12 to 20 times per minute at rest.

This higher rate in infants is essential to support their rapid growth and development. As infants are still developing their cardiovascular and respiratory systems, their needs ensure that these rates remain elevated. Understanding these differences is crucial for healthcare professionals in accurately assessing the health and development of infants during medical evaluations.