How does age generally affect vital signs?

• A. Vital signs remain the same regardless of age
• B. Vital signs can vary with age; for example, infants have higher heart rates than adults
• C. Older adults have significantly lower blood pressure
• D. Age has no impact on respiratory rates

Answer: (B)

Vital signs indeed vary with age, reflecting the physiological changes that occur throughout a person's life. For instance, infants and young children typically have higher heart rates and respiratory rates than adults, as their bodies require greater demand for oxygen and have higher metabolic rates. As children grow, their heart rate and respiratory rates gradually decrease and become more comparable to those of adults.

In addition, blood pressure trends also change with age, generally increasing as children grow into adulthood. Elderly individuals may experience different trends, but they do not universally present with lower blood pressure. Recognizing these variations is essential in clinical practice to accurately assess the health status of individuals at different life stages. This understanding is vital for health professionals to provide appropriate care tailored to the specific needs of patients based on their age.