What is the normal range for a healthy adult's respiratory rate?

The normal respiratory rate for a healthy adult typically falls within the range of 12 to 20 breaths per minute. This range is established based on physiological observations and clinical studies, indicating that it reflects optimal respiratory function necessary to meet the oxygenation and carbon dioxide removal demands of the body at rest.

A rate below 12 breaths per minute could indicate bradypnea, which may be associated with conditions such as drug overdose, while a rate above 20 breaths per minute could signify tachypnea, often linked to anxiety, lung disease, or exertion. Thus, recognizing the normal range of 12 to 20 breaths per minute is essential for accurately assessing a patient's respiratory status.