Question

You measure Mr. Johnson's respirations (rate of breathing) as 16 breaths in 30 seconds. What would you record as his respiratory rate in breaths per minute?"

A) 32 breaths per minute
B) 24 breaths per minute
C) 16 breaths per minute
D) 8 breaths per minute"

Answer 1

To find Mr. Johnson's respiratory rate per minute, you double the 30-second count, resulting in 32 breaths per minute. This rate is significant for maintaining proper alveolar ventilation.

Step-by-step explanation:

You measured Mr. Johnson's respiratory rate as 16 breaths in 30 seconds. To calculate his respiratory rate in breaths per minute, you would double the number of breaths counted in 30 seconds because there are 60 seconds in a minute. Therefore, you would record Mr. Johnson's respiratory rate as 32 breaths per minute. This calculation is important as the respiratory rate is a key indicator of health and is an important component of alveolar ventilation which is regulated to prevent carbon dioxide buildup in the alveoli. Alveolar ventilation and respiratory rate are closely monitored, especially when oxygen demand increases, to ensure efficient gas exchange and to avoid hyperventilation or hypoventilation.