What is the normal range for adult respiratory rate?

The normal respiratory rate for adults is between 12 to 20 breaths per minute. This range is considered indicative of a healthy respiratory function at rest. Rates lower than this can suggest bradypnea, which may be associated with conditions such as respiratory depression, whereas rates higher than this may indicate tachypnea, commonly seen in situations of increased demand for oxygen, such as fever, anxiety, or respiratory distress.

Monitoring respiratory rate is an essential part of assessing a patient's vital signs, providing critical information about their respiratory health and overall well-being. The established normal range of 12 to 20 breaths per minute is established based on a large population of healthy adults and reflects a balance between the body's metabolic demands and the efficiency of the respiratory system.