Which vital sign finding in a 3-year-old should be reported to the provider?

For a 3-year-old child, the normal respiratory rate is typically between 20 to 30 breaths per minute. A respiratory rate of 30 breaths per minute is at the upper limit of normal and does not warrant immediate concern. However, if the rate is consistently elevated or accompanied by signs of distress, further evaluation would be necessary.

In this context, reporting a vital sign that is significantly outside the normal range is crucial for ensuring proper care. When considering the other vital signs, the temperature is normal for children, a heart rate of 106 beats per minute is within the normal range for this age group, and the blood pressure reading also falls within acceptable limits for a toddler.

In contrast, if a respiratory rate rises significantly above or below the normal range or if there are concerning symptoms such as difficulty breathing, retractions, or stridor, it indicates a potential respiratory issue that may require immediate intervention. Therefore, the importance of the respiratory rate as a vital sign reflects the child's capacity for adequate oxygen exchange and overall respiratory function, making it a critical parameter to monitor and report if found to be concerning.