CNA Certification (Written Exam)Basic Nursing SkillsMedium
A nurse aide is preparing to count a resident's respirations. Which technique is correct?
- ACount respirations only while the resident is talking
- BTell the resident to breathe deeply and count out loud
- CCount respirations immediately after taking the pulse, without telling the resident
- DAsk the resident to hold their breath for 10 seconds first
Show answer & explanationAnswer & explanation
Correct answer: C. Count respirations immediately after taking the pulse, without telling the resident
Respirations should be counted discreetly, often right after taking the pulse while still holding the wrist, because people tend to breathe differently if they know they are being observed.
Why the other options are wrong
- A. Talking changes breathing pattern and rate, making the count inaccurate.
- B. Telling the resident to breathe deeply alters the natural breathing pattern.
- D. Holding the breath would give a false reading, not a resting rate.
Counting Respirations
Respirations should be counted without the resident's knowledge to avoid altering the natural breathing pattern.
- Often counted right after pulse while still holding wrist
- Count for 30 seconds and multiply by 2, or a full minute if irregular
- Normal adult rate is 12-20 breaths per minute
Memory trick: 'Sneaky breath count keeps it accurate'