Which term refers to an increased breathing rate?

Study for the Galen Fundamentals of Nursing Exam. Use flashcards and multiple choice questions, each with hints and explanations. Prepare for your exam confidently!

Multiple Choice

Which term refers to an increased breathing rate?

Explanation:
An increased breathing rate is called tachypnea. It means the number of breaths per minute is higher than normal—for adults, typically more than about 20 breaths per minute. This term focuses on the rate itself, not the sensation of breathlessness. Tachypnea is a measurable sign often seen with fever, infection, anxiety, pain, or conditions that affect oxygen exchange, such as pneumonia or heart or lung problems. In contrast, hypotension refers to low blood pressure, biohazard is a safety label for biological risks, and poison denotes a toxic substance. These do not describe how fast someone is breathing.

An increased breathing rate is called tachypnea. It means the number of breaths per minute is higher than normal—for adults, typically more than about 20 breaths per minute. This term focuses on the rate itself, not the sensation of breathlessness. Tachypnea is a measurable sign often seen with fever, infection, anxiety, pain, or conditions that affect oxygen exchange, such as pneumonia or heart or lung problems.

In contrast, hypotension refers to low blood pressure, biohazard is a safety label for biological risks, and poison denotes a toxic substance. These do not describe how fast someone is breathing.

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