What defines bradypnea?

Bradypnea is defined as a respiratory rate that is slower than what is considered normal or healthy. While the exact threshold can vary slightly based on different medical guidelines, it is generally accepted that a respiratory rate of less than 12 breaths per minute indicates bradypnea. However, many resources specifically identify a rate below 10 breaths per minute as a more definitive classification of bradypnea, which aligns with the choice given. This indicator is significant because a significantly reduced respiratory rate can signal underlying medical issues, requiring assessment and potential intervention.

In this context, the assessment of respiratory rates is crucial to monitoring a patient’s respiratory status. Rates below the defined threshold can reflect various conditions, including respiratory depression, drug effects, or central nervous system problems. Recognizing bradypnea is important in patient care, as it may lead to critical situations if not addressed promptly.