Normal Vital Signs
In most medical settings, the four standard primary vital signs are as follows: [1]
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Heart rate (pulse)
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Respiratory rate
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Blood pressure
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Body temperature
Normal values for each of these vital signs vary by age and, in some cases, by sex. They may also vary based on weight, exercise capability, and overall health.
In healthy adults at rest, normal values are as follows:
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Heart rate (pulse): 60-100 bpm
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Respiratory rate: 16-20 breaths per minute
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Blood pressure: 120/80 mm Hg
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Temperature: 98°F (36.6°C) to 98.6°F (37°C)
Normal Heart Rate
Table 1. Normal Heart Rate by Age (Open Table in a new window)
Approximate Age Range |
Heart Rate |
Newborn |
100-160 |
0-5 months |
90-150 |
6-12 months |
80-140 |
1-3 years |
80-130 |
3-5 years |
80-120 |
6-10 years |
70-110 |
11-14 years |
60-105 |
15 years or older |
60-100 |
Normal Respiratory Rate
Table 2. Normal Respiratory Rate by Age (Open Table in a new window)
Approximate Age Range |
Respiratory Rate |
Newborn |
30-50 |
0-5 months |
25-40 |
6-12 months |
20-30 |
1-3 years |
20-30 |
3-5 years |
20-30 |
6-10 years |
15-30 |
11-14 years |
12-20 |
15-20 years |
12-30 |
Adults |
16-20 |
Normal Blood Pressure
The normal blood pressure in adults is 120 (systolic)/80 (diastolic). Normal blood pressure in children and adolescents varies by age.
Table 3. Normal Blood Pressure by Age in Children and Adolescents (Open Table in a new window)
Approximate Age Range |
Systolic Range |
Diastolic Range |
1-12 months |
75-100 |
50-70 |
1-4 years |
80-110 |
50-80 |
3-5 years |
80-110 |
50-80 |
6-13 years |
85-120 |
55-80 |
13-18 years |
95-140 |
60-90 |
Normal Body Temperature
The average normal core temperature is generally considered to be between 98.0°F (36.6°C) and 98.6°F (37°C) when measured orally and about 1°F higher when measured rectally. [2]