Question

Jake is complaining of shortness of breath. The nurse assesses his respiratory rate to be 30 breaths per minute and documents that Jake is tachypneic. The nurse understands that tachypnea means:

A. Pulse rate greater than 100 beats per minute
B. Blood pressure of 140/90
C. Respiratory rate greater than 20 breaths per minute
D. Frequent bowel sounds

Answer 1

Tachypnea is a condition where the respiratory rate exceeds the normal range, commonly defined as greater than 20 breaths per minute for an adult. The nurse correctly identifies Jake's condition of tachypnea, which can be indicative of an underlying disease or increased oxygen demand.

Step-by-step explanation:

Jake is experiencing tachypnea, which is a medical term used to describe a respiratory rate that is higher than the normal range. Given that the average respiratory rate under non-exertion conditions for an adult is 12-15 breaths per minute, tachypnea can be defined as a respiratory rate significantly above this average. The correct answer to the nurse's understanding of tachypnea is C. Respiratory rate greater than 20 breaths per minute.

Respiratory rate can serve as an important indicator of disease, as it may increase during illness. The respiratory control centers within the medulla oblongata of the brain regulate this rate, often responding to changes in carbon dioxide, oxygen, and pH levels in the blood. When the body has higher oxygen demands, such as during exercise or certain diseases, the breathing rate and depth may increase, a condition known as hyperpnea, which is similar to but not the same as tachypnea.