Which respiratory sign in a baby would be concerning and may require IV treatment?

Breathing slower than normal, also known as bradypnea, can be particularly concerning in infants and may indicate an underlying respiratory issue that requires immediate attention. Infants have a naturally higher respiratory rate than older children and adults, and deviations from the expected norm can signal respiratory distress or compromise. When the breathing rate slows, it can lead to inadequate oxygenation, resulting in hypoxia, which can be life-threatening.

The identification of bradypnea necessitates further assessment of the infant's overall condition, including their oxygen saturation levels and the presence of additional signs of respiratory distress such as cyanosis, lethargy, or ineffective breathing patterns. If these signs are present, IV treatment and other interventions may be required to ensure the infant's safety and health.

Other options, such as breathing faster than normal, can occur in various situations, including fever or anxiety, and frequent sighing, although potentially indicative of discomfort, is not typically an immediate cause for concern unless accompanied by other pathological signs. Regular breathing patterns fall within the expected range for healthy infants and would not raise alarm in terms of respiratory distress.