Tachypnea would be characterized by which of the following respiratory rates in an adult patient?

• A. Greater than 20 breaths per minute
• B. 12 to 20 breaths per minute
• C. 8 to 12 breaths per minute
• D. Less than 8 breaths per minute

Answer: (A)

Verified step by step guidance

1. Step 1: Understand the term 'tachypnea'. Tachypnea refers to an abnormally rapid breathing rate, typically greater than the normal range for an adult.
2. Step 2: Recall the normal respiratory rate for an adult. The typical range is 12 to 20 breaths per minute under resting conditions.
3. Step 3: Compare the given options to the normal range. Identify which option exceeds the upper limit of the normal range (greater than 20 breaths per minute).
4. Step 4: Recognize that tachypnea is defined as a respiratory rate that is faster than normal, specifically greater than 20 breaths per minute in adults.
5. Step 5: Select the option that matches the definition of tachypnea, which is 'Greater than 20 breaths per minute'.