How do you obtain a respiratory rate?

Palpation:

1. Place the palmar surface of your hand against the subject's abdomen, just below the ribcage, ensuring your fingers are pointed towards their feet.

2. With a watch in your other hand, count the number of breaths for one full minute, noticing the rise and fall of the abdomen as the person breathes.

Observation:

1. Stand in front of the subject and position yourself so that you can have a clear view of their chest and abdomen.

2. Count the number of times their chest rises and falls within a minute. This is the respiratory rate.

Auscultation:

1. Place a stethoscope on the subject's back, in between their shoulder blades.

2. Count the number of breaths you hear through the stethoscope for a full minute.