Abstract
The respiratory rate is a sensitive and nonspecific indicator of respiratory dysfunction. Establishing a “normal” respiratory rate has mainly been arbitrary. This study evaluated “normal” respiratory rates in 110 emergency department patients. The mean respiratory rate was 20.1 (±4.0). Women had a more rapid respiratory rate 20.9 (±3.9) than men 19.4 (±4.0) (p<.04). Smokers had a higher respiratory rate 20.5 (±4.0) than nonsmokers 19.3 (±4.0), but this was not statistically significant ( P=0.124). It was also noted that the respiratory rate measured by the nurse was almost always different from that measured by the medical student ( P<0.0001). Based on a review of the literature concerning what constitutes a “normal” respiratory rate, we conclude that the “normal” respiratory rate may be higher than that suggested in the medical literature.
Sign-in/Register to access full text options 
Talk to us
Join us for a 30 min session where you can share your feedback and ask us any queries you have
Schedule a callDisclaimer: All third-party content on this website/platform is and will remain the property of their respective owners and is provided on "as is" basis without any warranties, express or implied. Use of third-party content does not indicate any affiliation, sponsorship with or endorsement by them. Any references to third-party content is to identify the corresponding services and shall be considered fair use under The CopyrightLaw.
