- There are several methods to determine repsiratory rate, and they are basically pretty simple. All you need is a watch or clock with a second hand or seconds display. Observe the person breathing for 15 seconds and multiply that number by 4. (Some people watch for 30 seconds and multiply by 2.) However, there is one caveat. A person who knows that they are being watched, will subconciously try to "normalize" their respiratory rate. So never tell anyone, "Now I'm going to check your breathing." Simply observe their breathing while doing other tasks.
- That all depends on a number of factors. The first factor is age. Infants and children breathe at a much higher rate than adults. Athletic or physically fit adults may have a much lower respiratory rate than other "average" peers of the same group. Normal respiratory rates by age as recommended by Brady Emergency Care (seventh edition, Grant and Harvey eds., Prentice Hall 1995) are as follows: an adult's respiration rate should be between 12 to 20 respirations per minute; a child's should be between 15 to 30 respirations per minute; and an infant's should be between 25 to 50 respirations per minute. Generally, "adult" includes children 12 years and older. Infants are considered from newborn to about 6 months and children are classified as being between 6 months to 11 years.
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Everyone's respiratory rate is different. And, respiratory rate changes depending on circumstances. Someone who has just completed a 5k run should have a much higher rate of respiration than someone sitting in front of the television. The important thing to note is whether breathing is adequate. Is the person getting enough oxygen?
If a person feels light-headed or fatigued, these may be symptoms of inadequate respiration. Other signs and symptoms include "tripod breathing," which is when an individual rests his or her hands on the knees in order to "catch their breath."
Also note any sounds the person is making when they try to breathe. Wheezing and gurgling sounds are signs of "respiratory obstruction." Also note skin color. If the skin is either flushed or pale, this may be a sign of inadequate breathing. - Although everyone's respiratory rate will vary, a respiratory rate of less than 8 respirations per minute or greater than 24 respirations per minute is an indicator of a very serious medical problem and you should call 911.
- Trained personnel can assist people who have trouble breathing. Common tools used for this include bag-valve masks (BVMs) and high-flow oxygen bottles. If you or someone in your home has chronic breathing problems, consult your family physician for information on how to help your loved ones "take a deep breath."
