Final answer:
A respiratory rate of less than 12 breaths per minute is classified as bradypnea, which is an abnormally slow respiratory rate. It can be a manifestation of various underlying health issues.
Step-by-step explanation:
A respiratory rate of less than 12 breaths per minute is classified as bradypnea. Bradypnea is a condition characterized by an abnormally slow respiratory rate. It can be a manifestation of various underlying health issues, such as respiratory depression, drug overdose, or certain medical conditions affecting the respiratory system.
For example, if a person is experiencing respiratory depression due to opioid use, their respiratory rate may decrease, indicating bradypnea. This slower breathing rate can be a cause for concern and needs to be reported to a healthcare provider.