A nurse assesses a client and notes bradypnea. Which respiratory rate reflects the nurse's assessment?

Choice A reason: A respiratory rate of 22 breaths per minute indicates tachypnea, which is rapid breathing. This is the opposite of bradypnea, which refers to abnormally slow breathing. Choice B reason: A respiratory rate of 18 breaths per minute is within the normal adult range (12–20 breaths per minute). This does not reflect bradypnea. Choice C reason: A respiratory rate of 8 breaths per minute is abnormally slow and meets the definition of bradypnea. Bradypnea is typically defined as fewer than 12 breaths per minute in adults, and 8 is significantly below normal. Choice D reason: A respiratory rate of 12 breaths per minute is at the lower limit of normal. While it is slow compared to average, it is not considered bradypnea because it still falls within the normal range.