Question

A PCT is caring for a patient who has a respiratory rate of 30/min. Which of the following terms should the tech use to describe the patient's breathing pattern when reporting the vital signs to the nurse?

A) Bradypnea
B) Tachypnea
C) Apnea
D) Eupnea

Answer 1

The PCT should use the term Tachypnea to describe the patient's breathing pattern when reporting the vital signs to the nurse. Tachypnea refers to a rapid breathing rate, typically greater than 20 breaths per minute.

Step-by-step explanation:

The PCT should use the term Tachypnea to describe the patient's breathing pattern when reporting the vital signs to the nurse. Tachypnea refers to a rapid breathing rate, typically greater than 20 breaths per minute, which is above the normal range of 12-15 breaths per minute.

By using the term tachypnea, the PCT can effectively communicate to the nurse that the patient's respiratory rate is elevated.

Additionally, it is important to note that tachypnea can be a symptom of an underlying health condition and further assessment may be necessary by the nurse.