What respiratory rate indicates respiratory distress?

A respiratory rate of 20 breaths per minute or greater typically indicates respiratory distress in adults. In a healthy adult, the normal respiratory rate ranges from 12 to 20 breaths per minute. When the rate exceeds this range, it often signifies that the body is attempting to compensate for decreased oxygenation or increased carbon dioxide levels in the blood.

When a person's respiratory rate is at least 20 bpm, it serves as an early indicator that the individual may be experiencing difficulty with breathing or inadequate gas exchange. Although rates above 30 bpm can reflect severe distress or respiratory failure, recognizing that a rate of 20 bpm or higher suggests a shift from normal respiratory function is crucial for timely intervention. This highlights the importance of monitoring vital signs actively as part of patient assessment in emergency situations.

Understanding this threshold allows EMTs and other healthcare providers to initiate appropriate treatments, such as supplemental oxygen, further evaluations, or advanced airway management, if necessary.