VB
Vikas Bhardwaj
Medical Technologist, AIIMS New Delhi
Updated: Apr 17, 2026
**Core Concept**
The question is based on the diagnosis and management of respiratory illnesses in pediatric patients, specifically the assessment of respiratory distress in infants. **Respiratory rate** is a crucial parameter in evaluating the severity of respiratory illness in children.
**Why the Correct Answer is Right**
Given the child's age and symptoms, the normal respiratory rate for a 10-month-old infant typically ranges from 24 to 40 breaths per minute. The child's respiratory rate of 48 per minute is elevated, indicating **tachypnea**, which is often a sign of respiratory infection or distress. However, the absence of retractions, grunting, or cyanosis suggests that the child is not in severe distress.
**Why Each Wrong Option is Incorrect**
**Option A:** Not provided, so cannot be evaluated.
**Option B:** Not provided, so cannot be evaluated.
**Option C:** Not provided, so cannot be evaluated.
**Option D:** Not provided, so cannot be evaluated.
**Clinical Pearl / High-Yield Fact**
It's essential to remember that **age-specific respiratory rates** are crucial in assessing pediatric patients. Tachypnea in infants can be an early sign of respiratory infection, and prompt recognition is vital for timely intervention.
**Correct Answer:** D. Tachypnea is present.