Respiratory rate: Indicates the number of

Respiratory rate indicates the number of breaths per unit time (usually minute) and can be a good indicator of our health. It is best to measure your respiratory rate when at rest, either sitting or lying down. Sometimes waiting in the exam room is helpful in returning your breathing rate to normal after you rushed to your appointment. Your provider will count the number of breaths taken in one minute. Learn what respiratory rate measures, how to measure it, and what factors can affect it. Find out the normal respiratory rate ranges for different ages and when to see a doctor. Vital Signs Vital signs measure the basic functions of your body. They include your body temperature, blood pressure, pulse and respiratory ( breathing ) rate . Normal ranges for these signs vary by age, BMI and other factors. Pediatric vital signs aren’t the same as adult vital signs. A healthcare provider will let you know if you need to monitor any of your vital signs.