Respiratory rate: Indicates the number of breaths per

Respiratory rate indicates the number of breaths per unit time (usually minute) and can be a good indicator of our health. Learn what is a normal respiratory rate for adults and children, and how to measure it at rest. Find out the causes and effects of high or low respiratory rates, and when to contact 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. 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.