What is the normal resting respiratory rate for healthy adults?

• A. 12-20 breaths per minute
• B. 8-12 breaths per minute
• C. 16-24 breaths per minute
• D. 10-14 breaths per minute

Answer: (C)

Normal resting respiratory rate for healthy adults is about 12 to 20 breaths per minute. This range represents breathing at a steady, resting state when metabolic demand is low and regular gas exchange is maintained. Rates outside this range can signal adjustment needs or health concerns—too fast can occur with fever, anxiety, pain, or respiratory/cardiac stress; too slow might be seen with certain medications or fatigue. To assess accurately, count breaths for a full minute in a calm setting and without talking. Among the given options, 12-20 best matches the standard resting range, since it includes typical lower and upper limits for rest, whereas the other ranges either miss lower values or extend beyond what’s normal at rest.