Which age group has the highest normal respiratory rate?

• A. Adolescents
• B. Newborn
• C. Adults
• D. Older adults

Answer: (B)

Newborns have the highest resting respiratory rate among the age groups because their bodies have a high metabolic demand while their lungs and breathing control are still maturing. They rely on a faster rate of breathing to achieve the necessary minute ventilation since their tidal volumes are small. As children grow, their lungs enlarge, respiratory control becomes more efficient, and the rate at rest decreases. In adults, normal resting breathing is slower, typically around 12–20 breaths per minute, and even later in life may stay similar or rise only modestly due to aging. So, the newborn’s rapid breathing reflects the need to meet oxygen demands with a relatively small tidal volume until the respiratory system fully develops.