Nursing Acceleration Challenge Exam (NACE) PN-RN Practice Test

What respiratory rate should be reported to the physician after extubation?

1. 8 per minute.

2. 24 per minute.

3. 12 per minute.

4. 30 per minute.

The correct answer is: 8 per minute.

A respiratory rate of 8 breaths per minute is considered bradypnea, which can indicate inadequate respiratory effort and potential respiratory failure, especially following extubation. After removing a patient from mechanical ventilation, it is crucial to monitor their respiratory function closely, as they may not be able to maintain adequate oxygenation and ventilation independently. A healthy respiratory rate typically ranges from 12 to 20 breaths per minute for adults. Therefore, a rate of 8 reflects a significant concern that should be communicated to the physician for further assessment and possible intervention to ensure the patient's airway and respiratory status are secure. Monitoring rates such as 24 or 30 breaths per minute could indicate tachypnea, which might also require attention, but 8 breaths per minute is critically low and warrants immediate clinical consideration.