Understanding How Children Differ from Adults

Children's unique anatomy, physiology, and psychology require modified approaches to first aid. These differences affect everything from assessment to treatment.

Anatomical Differences:

Head and Neck:

- Proportionally larger head (18% body surface in infants vs. 9% in adults) - Weaker neck muscles - Larger tongue relative to mouth - Smaller airway diameter - Higher larynx position - Softer skull bones

Chest and Breathing:

- More flexible ribs - Rely more on diaphragm - Higher oxygen consumption - Faster respiratory rates - Smaller lung capacity - Horizontal ribs in infants

Cardiovascular:

- Higher heart rates - Lower blood pressure - Better compensation for blood loss - Sudden decompensation - Different pulse locations

> Quick Reference Box: Normal Vital Signs by Age > > Heart Rate (beats/minute): > - Newborn: 100-160 > - Infant (1-12 months): 100-150 > - Toddler (1-3 years): 90-150 > - Preschool (3-5 years): 80-140 > - School age (6-12 years): 70-120 > - Adolescent: 60-100 > > Respiratory Rate (breaths/minute): > - Newborn: 30-60 > - Infant: 25-40 > - Toddler: 20-30 > - Preschool: 20-25 > - School age: 16-20 > - Adolescent: 12-20

Physiological Differences:

Temperature Regulation:

- Lose heat faster - Higher surface area to mass ratio - Less subcutaneous fat - Inefficient shivering - Prone to hypothermia

Fluid Balance:

- Higher percentage water content - Greater fluid requirements - Dehydrate quickly - Vomiting/diarrhea more serious - Need careful rehydration

Immune System:

- Developing immunity - More susceptible to infections - Fever response varies - Serious infections progress quickly

Psychological Differences:

Communication:

- Limited vocabulary - May not localize pain - Regression during stress - Non-verbal cues important - Parents as interpreters

Fear and Anxiety:

- Stranger anxiety - Separation fears - Limited understanding - Magical thinking - Need comfort items

Pain Response:

- Different expression - May withdraw or become quiet - Need age-appropriate comfort - Distraction techniques crucial - Parental presence vital