How does a baby's pulse and respiration rate compare to that of adults?

A baby's pulse and respiration rate is generally faster than that of adults, which is why the correct answer is that infants exhibit a higher frequency of both heartbeats and breaths.

For context, infants typically have a pulse rate ranging from 120 to 160 beats per minute, while adults usually have a resting heart rate of about 60 to 100 beats per minute. Similarly, the respiratory rate in newborns can be between 30 to 60 breaths per minute, compared to the adult range of 12 to 20 breaths per minute.

This higher rate in babies is a reflection of their faster metabolism and the needs of their developing bodies. As children grow, their pulse and respiration rates gradually decrease to align more closely with adult norms. Understanding these differences is crucial for providing appropriate care and monitoring vital signs in pediatric patients.