What is the normal respiration rate for adults?

What is the normal respiration rate for adults?

• A. 8-12 breaths per minute
• B. 6-10 breaths per minute
• C. 12-20 breaths per minute
• D. 20-24 breaths per minute

Answer: (C)

Normal breathing for an adult at rest is about 12 to 20 breaths per minute. This range reflects typical resting ventilatory drive and adequate gas exchange. Rates within this range are considered normal. If the rate stays below 12, it’s bradypnea and may indicate suppressed respiratory drive or other conditions. If the rate is above 20, it’s tachypnea and can occur with fever, anxiety, pain, hypoxemia, or respiratory distress. The other ranges given—8-12 and 6-10—are below normal for resting adults, while 20-24 is above normal. To measure, count breaths for a full minute for accuracy.

Normal breathing for an adult at rest is about 12 to 20 breaths per minute. This range reflects typical resting ventilatory drive and adequate gas exchange. Rates within this range are considered normal. If the rate stays below 12, it’s bradypnea and may indicate suppressed respiratory drive or other conditions. If the rate is above 20, it’s tachypnea and can occur with fever, anxiety, pain, hypoxemia, or respiratory distress. The other ranges given—8-12 and 6-10—are below normal for resting adults, while 20-24 is above normal. To measure, count breaths for a full minute for accuracy.