What is the normal resting respiratory rate for adults?

• A. 12-20 breaths per minute
• B. 8-12
• C. 20-25
• D. 15-25

Answer: (A)

Normal resting respiratory rate for adults is 12 to 20 breaths per minute. This range is used because it reflects adequate ventilation and oxygen delivery when a person is at rest, without distress or abnormal effort. To assess, count the number of breaths for a full minute with the person quiet and relaxed, watching the chest rise and fall.

Rates at or below 12 can indicate bradypnea, while rates above 20 suggest tachypnea and possible respiratory or metabolic stress; many factors such as fever, pain, anxiety, illness, or medications can push the rate outside the normal range. The other options either fall outside the typical adult norm or are too broad a range to serve as the standard reference.