Tachypneic
Formal Definition
Exhibiting tachypnea: an abnormally increased respiratory rate, typically defined as greater than 20 breaths per minute in adults, indicating physiologic stress, hypoxia, acidosis, or pulmonary pathology.
How It's Used on the Ward
"She's tachypneic" or "breathing fast" — a vital sign red flag that often precedes other signs of deterioration.
Example
""Overnight cross-cover called: 'Patient in 416 looks uncomfortable, RR 28, SpO2 91% on room air.' Went immediately — pulmonary embolism confirmed on CT-PA three hours later.""
Clinical Context
Tachypnea is one of the earliest and most sensitive signs of physiologic distress — often precedes hypoxia, hypotension, and tachycardia. Causes: hypoxemia, metabolic acidosis (Kussmaul breathing in DKA), PE, pneumonia, pain, anxiety. Nursing may not flag RR >20 unless it's very high — check it yourself during rounds. A patient with RR 24 and normal SpO2 may be compensating for metabolic acidosis.
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