How is an infant defined in terms of age?

An infant is generally defined in medical and health contexts as a child between the ages of 1 to 12 months. This age range reflects the period in which significant developmental milestones occur, including rapid physical growth and the establishment of foundational sensory and motor skills. During this time, infants undergo crucial stages of development such as learning to sit, crawl, and eventually walk, as well as beginning to communicate and interact with their environment.

Recognizing this definition is especially important in emergency medical situations where age-specific protocols, dosages for medications, and developmental considerations influence the approach to care. Infants require different assessment techniques and equipment compared to older children and adults due to their unique physiological characteristics.

In contrast, the other age groups mentioned do not align with the standard definition of an infant, leading to potential confusion in assessment and treatment scenarios. This clear understanding is crucial for first responders and healthcare professionals when providing care to younger patients.