What is considered a normal respiratory rate for adults?

The normal respiratory rate for adults ranges from 12 to 20 breaths per minute. This range is recognized as the standard for evaluating a person's respiratory function in a resting state, reflecting the typical demand for oxygen and the removal of carbon dioxide. Factors such as age, fitness level, and overall health can influence respiratory rates, but the established normal range provides a baseline for assessing respiratory health.

A respiratory rate that is lower than 12 may indicate bradypnea, while a rate exceeding 20 can suggest tachypnea, both of which may signal respiratory distress or other underlying health issues. Thus, the reference to 12 to 20 cycles per minute as a normal rate is clinically significant and essential for health assessments.