What is tachypnea?

Tachypnea is defined as an increased respiratory rate, specifically exceeding a frequency of 24 breaths per minute in adults. This condition can be indicative of various underlying health issues such as respiratory distress, fever, metabolic acidosis, or anxiety, among others. The significance of tachypnea lies in its potential to reflect the body's response to insufficient oxygenation or other metabolic needs, prompting further medical evaluation and intervention.

The other choices do not accurately define tachypnea. A respiratory rate below 12 per minute is considered bradypnea, while a rate between 16 to 20 is typically within the normal range for adults. Describing a respiratory rate as consistent and regular does not address the rate itself, which is essential for identifying tachypnea. Therefore, understanding that tachypnea specifically refers to an elevated respiratory rate above 24 breaths per minute is crucial for recognizing this condition in clinical practice.