What is the typical adult respiratory rate?

• A. 8 to 12 breaths per minute.
• B. 22 to 28 breaths per minute.
• C. 12 to 20 breaths per minute.
• D. 30 to 40 breaths per minute.

Answer: (D)

The rate at rest for an average adult is about 12–20 breaths per minute. This range reflects normal ventilation when not exerting energy. Breathing significantly slower (bradypnea) or faster (tachypnea) can signal underlying issues—bradypnea (<12) might occur with sedation or neurological problems, while tachypnea (>20) can come from fever, hypoxia, anxiety, or lung disease. When checking, count breaths for a full minute (or 30 seconds and multiply by two) with the person quiet and relaxed. So, 12–20 breaths per minute is the typical adult resting rate.