What is the normal range for adult respiratory rates?

The normal range for adult respiratory rates is typically acknowledged to be 12 to 20 breaths per minute. This range is established based on clinical observations and physiological studies that indicate a healthy adult at rest takes this amount of breaths to adequately exchange oxygen and carbon dioxide while maintaining homeostasis.

Rates below 12 breaths per minute may indicate bradypnea, which can signal respiratory distress or other underlying health issues. Conversely, rates exceeding 20 breaths per minute are often considered tachypnea, which might arise from anxiety, illness, or other factors that necessitate increased respiratory activity.

Therefore, recognizing that 12 to 20 breaths per minute encompasses the norm for healthy adults allows healthcare providers to quickly assess and monitor respiratory status, aiding in early identification of potential respiratory problems.