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Overview
A complete breath consists of
an inspiration, and expiration, and a pause. Respiration enables oxygen
to be taken into the body and circulated to all tissues through the blood,
while carbon dioxide is collected from the tissue and excreted. The
respiration rate is the number of times per minute that the chest rises
and falls.
The respiration rate varies between the genders and with age. In
adults, the rate varies from 16 - 20 per minute, slightly faster in
women. The rate may be increased as a result of bronchitis, viral
infection, heart disease, shock, exercise and by excitement or emotion.
It is decreased during rest or sleep and when fatigued. Normal respiration
is rhythmical, quiet, regular and comfortable.
A person who is having difficulty
breathing may find relief by being turned slightly on their side with their
head propped up on pillows. Sometimes opening a window may
also help. A person with breathing difficulties
will always be found sitting up.
Tips on Counting Respiration Rate
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It should be noted that the decision to stop inspiring and expiring can
be made voluntarily. We can all breathe more quickly or slowly at will
and it is difficult not to alter the rate of breathing when you know that
your breathing is being watched.
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It is best to take the breathing
rate when you check the pulse so that you can do it unobtrusively, or do
it when the person is asleep.
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To take the respiration
unobtrusively, when you finish taking the pulse, leave your fingers
on the person's wrist and raise your eyes so that you can see the chest wall
rising and falling. The person will not be aware that you are counting
his respiration rate as he will think you are still counting his pulse rate.
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Use a watch and count the rate for a
full minute. One breathe is make up of both 1
inspiration and 1 expiration.
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When noting the respiration rate, you should
also note its character, particularly its depth and regularity
(rhythm), as well as noting the
discomfort which may be apparent.
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