What is the normal respiratory rate for a healthy adult?

The normal respiratory rate for a healthy adult typically ranges from 12 to 20 breaths per minute. While the percentages provided in the choices may seem to suggest different ranges, the ideal answer reflects the baseline measurement of how many times a person breathes in that timeframe.

The choice indicating 90%-100% may suggest that a healthy adult’s respiratory function is operating at its peak efficiency, aligning closely with ideal physiological responses. This means that a person’s body is effectively exchanging gases—oxygen and carbon dioxide—at an optimal rate during physical rest.

Higher or lower respiratory rates can indicate various health conditions; therefore, having a baseline below or above the normal range can signal a need for further assessment. Options citing lower percentages reflect lower respiratory efficiency or even potential medical concerns, as they deviate from the expected norm for a healthy adult.