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Neonates
Vital Signs immediately after birth: 40-60 breaths/minute, then 30-40 breaths a few minutes after birth. Heart rate changes from 140-160 to 100-160 beats/minute. BP is 70-90 mm Hg. Temp is 98-100 degrees. Usually weigh around 3.0-3.5 kg. Infants require breast milk for their first year or so of life. They are primarily nose breathers and their immune system is immature. Have fontanels and special reflexes. -
Infancy (1 month-1 year)
Vital Signs: 120 bpm, 20-30 breaths, 90 mm Hg, 98-100 degrees temp. As an infant ages, his heart and respiratory rates become lower & his systolic blood pressure becomes higher. The infant will be able to consume soft foods without teeth. Airways are shorter, narrower, and less stable. EMTs should look for symmetrical movement when testing reflexes. They should be able recognize familiar faces, sit upright, grasp & shake toys, walk with help, say "mama/dada", and know his own name by 12 months. -
Toddlers/Pre-School Age Children (1-3)
Vital Signs: 80-130 bpm, 70-100 mm Hg, 20-30 breaths, 98.6 degree temp. By age 5, should have all primary teeth. There are increases in muscle mass and # of alveoli. Brain grows exponentially along with motor skills. Susceptible to minor gastrointestinal and respiratory infections. Language is mastered by 36 months, separation anxiety at 18 months. Playing serves important role in development. -
School age children (6-12)
Vital Signs:
70-110 bpm, 20-30 breaths, 80-120 systolic, 98.6 temp
Primary teeth replaced with permanent teeth, musculoskeletal system grows, develop ability to read & write, & some struggle with nocturnal enuresis. Most attend school and make friends outside of home, interact more with adults and other children, friendships are important, has a concept of self, self-esteem, and morals. Understands concepts associated with pain, death, and illness. Are able to identify public safety personnel. -
Adolescence - (12-18)
Vital Signs: 55-105 bpm, 12-20 breaths, 120/80 mm Hg, 98.6 temp.
Most experience a rapid 2-3 year growth spurt. Muscle and bone growth is complete by 18, puberty occurs. Family conflicts arise and revolve around the belief that they are the focus of attention, want to be treated as adults but are incapable of making adult decisions, prefers privacy during exams, becomes antisocial in the eight or ninth grades, depression and suicide are most common in this age group, explore sex. -
Early Adulthood (20-40)
Vital Signs: 75 bpm, 12-20 breaths, 120/80 mm Hg, 98.6 temp.
Peak physical condition is reached at 19-26. Accidents are leading cause of death in this age group. Assume more responsibility and become more independent, develop relationships and begin families, childbirth is most common in this age group, finish school and establish careers. -
Middle Adulthood (40-60)
Vital Signs are the same as early adulthood.
Body systems are functioning at high level with varying degrees of degradation based upon lifestyle and disease. More susceptible to chronic illnesses and diseases like diabetes and arthritis. Weight gain is easy and loss is difficult. Vision and hearing changes occur, women experience menopause.
Individuals reach personal goals and reach out to help others, some question lack of goal accomplishment, many delay seeking medical attention. -
Late Adulthood (60+)
Vital signs depend greatly on the person. The incidence of illness and disease increases with age, most body systems become less efficient. Must face new challenges and many reflect on their lives. May feel isolated, 95% of older adults live in communities adapted to their needs, some feel ashamed to ask for help or assistance. Can lead to decline in well-being and self-worth. Many experience death of their companions.