What is the normal range for adult respiratory rate that a corpsman should monitor?

The normal respiratory rate for adults is typically between 12 to 20 breaths per minute. This range is considered standard for healthy adults at rest and is crucial for a corpsman to monitor during evaluations of a patient’s vital signs. An adult respiratory rate within this range indicates that the individual is likely maintaining adequate ventilation and oxygen exchange, which are essential for maintaining overall physiological health.

Monitoring respiratory rate helps assess the respiratory function and can indicate potential issues, such as respiratory distress or failure, if the rate deviates significantly from the normal range. When the respiratory rate falls below or exceeds this normal range, it may suggest underlying medical conditions that require immediate attention. Thus, understanding the normal range and being able to recognize deviations is vital in tactical and medical situations to ensure proper patient care and prompt intervention.