What age defines a pediatric patient?

A pediatric patient is typically defined as someone who is under the age of 18. This classification is aligned with guidelines established by various health organizations, which recognize that individuals from birth until they reach adulthood are considered children or adolescents, thus falling under pediatric care.

While option B suggests that a pediatric patient is under age 15, this is not standard practice as it excludes adolescents who are 15 to 17 years old. The transition from pediatric to adult care often occurs at age 18, marking the legal age of majority in many jurisdictions. Therefore, considering the comprehensive spectrum of healthcare needs and developmental stages, defining a pediatric patient as anyone under age 18 is more accurate and widely accepted within the medical community.