What is the normal respiratory rate for preschoolers?

• A. 18-30 breaths per minute
• B. 12-20 breaths per minute
• C. 30-60 breaths per minute
• D. 22-34 breaths per minute

Answer: (D)

The main idea here is knowing the normal resting breathing rate for preschool-aged children. Kids around 3 to 5 years old breathe faster at rest than adults or older kids, because their bodies have higher metabolic demands and their airways are smaller. For this age group, a typical resting rate is about 22 to 34 breaths per minute. That’s why the best choice falls in this range. Rates that are lower, like 12–20, are more typical of older children or adults; a rate around 30–60 would be more like an infant’s range and would be too high for a preschooler.