What is the normal respiratory rate for a child aged 4-5 years?

• A. 20-30
• B. 15-25
• C. 25-35
• D. 30-40

Answer: (A)

For a preschool-aged child, the resting respiratory rate is typically around 20–30 breaths per minute. This reflects how pediatric patients breathe faster than adults but slower than infants, with rates gradually slowing as children grow. To assess accurately, count breaths for a full minute while the child is calm and not crying, since fever, anxiety, or pain can temporarily raise the rate.

Rates much lower than this range would usually be unusual for a child this age, while rates higher than this range, especially sustained, can indicate tachypnea and potential respiratory distress. Therefore, 20–30 breaths per minute is the best fit for a normal resting rate in a 4–5-year-old.