What type of breathing pattern is characteristic of a patient with hyperventilation?

The breathing pattern characteristic of a patient with hyperventilation is rapid and shallow breathing. Hyperventilation occurs when a person breathes excessively fast, leading to an increase in the rate and depth of ventilation. This can result in decreased levels of carbon dioxide in the blood, which may cause symptoms like dizziness and tingling sensations.

Rapid and shallow breathing is the body's response to a physiological or psychological stressor, such as anxiety or panic attacks. During hyperventilation, the body attempts to expel carbon dioxide quickly, which is why the breaths tend to be less deep and more rapid. This pattern contrasts with other types of breathing patterns, such as slow and steady or deep and labored, which are not indicative of hyperventilation. Understanding these distinctions is crucial for recognizing the respiratory issues that may arise in various clinical scenarios.