What is the normal respiratory rate for a healthy adult at rest?

• A. 12–20 breaths per minute
• B. 8–12 breaths per minute
• C. 20–30 breaths per minute
• D. 6–10 breaths per minute

Answer: (A)

Normal resting respiratory rate for a healthy adult is 12 to 20 breaths per minute. This range reflects comfortable, unlabored breathing at rest with adequate ventilation and gas exchange. A rate below this, such as 6 to 10 breaths per minute, suggests bradypnea and can be caused by sleep, CNS depression, certain medications, or metabolic issues; it requires assessment for oxygenation and overall stability. A rate above this, like 20 to 30 breaths per minute, indicates tachypnea and can occur with fever, pain, anxiety, hypoxia, or metabolic disturbances. To measure accurately, observe the patient at rest in a quiet room and count breaths for a full minute, noting both rate and any labored effort.