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Respiratory System
Tachypnea
Definition
An abnormally rapid respiratory rate, generally greater than 20 breaths per minute in an adult. It often signals hypoxia, fever, or respiratory distress.
Clinical Use
A post-operative patient shows tachypnea at 28 breaths per minute; the nurse applies oxygen, checks pulse oximetry, and notifies the provider of possible pulmonary embolism.