Respirations Respirations Definition the process of taking in

Respirations

Respirations • Definition- the process of taking in oxygen and expelling carbon dioxide from the lungs and respiratory tract • One respiration consists of one inspiration and one expiration

Respirations – The breathing rate of the patient • Rate – number of respirations per minute = – Adults – 12 – 20 rpm – Children – 16 – 25 rpm – Infants – 30 – 50 rpm • Rhythm – regularity = regular or irregular • Character – type; depth and quality = deep, shallow, labored, difficult, stertorous, and moist

Respirations – Abnormal respirations • Dyspnea- difficult or labored breathing • Apnea – absence of breathing • Tachypnea – respiratory rate above 25 rpm • Bradypnea – respiratory rate below 10 rpm • Orthopnea – difficult breathing in any position other than sitting erect or standing

Respirations Abnormal respirations continued • Cheyne-Stokes respirations – periods of dyspnea followed by periods of apnea = frequently seen in dying patients • Rales – bubbling or noisy sounds caused by fluids or mucus in the air passages

Respirations • Must be counted in such a way that patient is unaware of the procedure as respirations are partially under voluntary control • Leave hand on pulse site while counting respirations • Document findings - R