The normal vital signs for pediatric patients are different from the normal ranges for adults.

• A. Not sure
• B. Depends on age group
• C. False
• D. True

Answer: (D)

Vital signs in children are not a one-size-fits-all set. Heart rate, respiratory rate, and even typical blood pressure change as a child grows, reflecting differences in metabolism, airway size, and vascular development. Because of this, normal ranges for kids are laid out by age groups rather than mirroring adult values. For example, newborns commonly have resting heart rates around 120–160 bpm and respiratory rates around 30–60 breaths per minute, much higher than adults. By preschool and school age, heart rates often fall toward 70–110 bpm and respirations toward 20–30 per minute, with further gradual changes into adolescence that move closer to adult norms. Blood pressure also increases with age, so reference values depend on age (and height) rather than using a single adult standard. While temperature interpretation is generally similar, the broader point is that pediatric vital signs require age-specific norms for accurate assessment. This is why the statement is true.