Normal Respiratory Rate for Adults

Normal Respiratory Rate Parameters

• The American Heart Association guidelines indicate that a normal adult respiratory rate is approximately 10-12 breaths per minute when providing rescue breaths to a patient with spontaneous circulation 2, 3, 4

Special Considerations

• The American Heart Association recommends delivering 1 breath every 6 seconds (10 breaths per minute) while continuous chest compressions are being performed during CPR in adults with an advanced airway in place 3, 5, 6
• For patients with spontaneous circulation who require ventilatory support, healthcare providers should deliver rescue breaths at a rate of about 1 breath every 6 seconds, or approximately 10 breaths per minute 3, 4, 7
• Excessive ventilation (greater than 25 breaths per minute) during resuscitation should be avoided as it may be associated with worse outcomes 6, 8