Which age group is more likely to exhibit respiratory distress signs than others?

Infants are more likely to exhibit signs of respiratory distress than older age groups due to several physiological and anatomical factors. Infants have smaller airways, which are more susceptible to obstruction and respiratory compromise. Their respiratory system is still developing, making them more vulnerable to infections, bronchospasm, and other respiratory conditions. The signs of distress—such as nasal flaring, grunting, retractions, and the use of accessory muscles—can manifest quickly in infants because their respiratory reserve is limited. Moreover, infants may not be able to effectively communicate their discomfort or breathing difficulties, which can make those signs even more critical to recognize early.

In contrast, preschoolers, school-aged children, and adolescents tend to have larger airways, greater lung capacity, and can often verbalize their symptoms, which may result in a delayed presentation of respiratory distress in comparison to infants. Understanding these differences is crucial for EMTs in assessing and providing care tailored to the specific needs of various age groups, particularly the most vulnerable ones like infants.