What is the importance of respiratory rate in pediatric ventilation?
The respiratory rate (RR) is crucial in maintaining adequate alveolar ventilation and carbon dioxide elimination. Pediatric patients have higher metabolic rates than adults, necessitating higher respiratory rates. The appropriate RR varies with age:
- Neonates: 30-40 breaths per minute - Infants: 25-35 breaths per minute - Children: 20-30 breaths per minute - Adolescents: 12-20 breaths per minute
