INFANT RESPIRATORY RATE - This is defined as the number of breaths per minute when at rest. The newborn to 2 months of age respiratory rate should be 40 breaths per minute +/- 6 breaths per minute. For those infants who are 3 to 12 months old the respiratory rate should 30 breaths per minute +/- 7 breaths per minute. For those children who are 1-6 years old the respiratory rate should be 24 breaths per minute +/- 3 breaths per minute. For children who are 7 to 12 years of age the respiratory rate should be 19 breaths per minute +/- 2 breaths per minute. For children over 13 years of age, respiratory rates are essentially the same as adults with 17 breaths per minute +/- 3 breaths per minute. Crying, fever, and excitement can all accelerate the respiratory rate. Rapid respiratory rates can also be seen in bronchiolitis, pneumonia, asthma, and other pulmonary infections. A physician should evaluate any child who maintains a respiratory rate significantly above the normal range while at rest immediately.