DANB General Chairside Practice Test

Which statement about a patient's respiration is false?

1. Respirations are normally higher in counts per minute than the pulse rate

2. Respiration rate can vary based on activity level

3. Respiration is regulated by the body's need for oxygen

4. Changes in respiration can indicate medical conditions

The correct answer is: Respirations are normally higher in counts per minute than the pulse rate

The statement regarding respirations normally being higher in counts per minute than the pulse rate is incorrect. In a typical resting state for adults, respiratory rates generally range from 12 to 20 breaths per minute, whereas pulse rates usually range from 60 to 100 beats per minute. This establishes that, under normal circumstances, the pulse rate is higher than the respiratory count. Understanding the other statements provides valuable context. The rate of respiration can indeed vary based on activity level, as the body requires more oxygen during physical exertion, which results in increased respiratory rates. Additionally, respiration is primarily regulated by the body's need for oxygen; changes in oxygen and carbon dioxide levels signal the respiratory center in the brain to adjust breathing accordingly. Lastly, changes in a person's respiration can indicate underlying medical conditions. For example, rapid or shallow breathing can signal distress or respiratory issues, while very slow breathing may indicate neurological problems. Each of these factors contributes to the understanding of normal respiratory function and its variations in response to the body's needs.