What does bradypnea refer to?

Bradypnea refers specifically to slow breathing. This term is used in medical contexts to describe a respiratory rate that is slower than the normal range, typically considered to be fewer than 12 breaths per minute in adults. It can be an important clinical sign, as it may indicate underlying health issues, such as respiratory depression, neurological problems, or metabolic disturbances. Understanding respiratory rates is crucial in health assisting, as it helps in monitoring a patient’s condition and responding appropriately to any abnormalities.

Other options present different respiratory conditions: rapid breathing is defined as tachypnea, normal breathing is referred to as eupnea, and the absence of breathing is known as apnea, making it essential to understand the distinction between these terms.