Which condition can lead to increased respiratory rate?

Increased metabolic demand is a condition that can lead to an elevated respiratory rate as the body requires more oxygen to support its heightened energy needs. During periods of increased metabolic activity—such as exercise, fever, or illness—the body’s cells require more oxygen for energy production and generate more carbon dioxide as a byproduct. To compensate, the respiratory rate increases in an effort to enhance gas exchange in the lungs, thus providing the necessary oxygen and removing excess carbon dioxide.

This response is crucial in pediatric patients, where increased metabolic demand can be seen during conditions such as sepsis, trauma, or respiratory distress. Maintaining appropriate oxygenation and ventilation is essential in these scenarios, and the body responds by increasing respiratory effort. Understanding this physiological response helps in the early recognition of respiratory distress or failure and informs appropriate interventions in the PALS context.