Respirations(the process of taking in oxygen and

expelling carbon dioxide)Variables to assess1. Rate – number of breaths in one minute• Adults: 12-20• Children: 16-25• Infants: 30-50

tachypnea-respiratory rate too highbradypnea-respiratory rate too low

2. Rhythm – regularity of respirations (spacing between breaths)• Regular or irregular

3. Character – depth and quality of respiration• Described by words such as deep, shallow, labored, difficult,

stertorous, moist

Abnormal Respirations

Dyspnea – difficult or labored breathingApnea – absence of respirationsOrthopnea – severe dyspnea in which breathing is difficult

in any position other than sitting up or standingCheyne-Stokes respirations – periods of dyspnea followed

by periods of apnea; usually seen in a dying patientRales – bubbling or crackling sounds caused by fluid or

mucous in the air passagesWheezing – high-pitched whistling sound during expiration;

caused by narrowing of air passages; usually seen during asthma

Cyanosis – dusky, bluish discolorations of the skin, lips or mucous membranes caused by decreased oxygen