When measuring respiration rate, what should you avoid doing?

When measuring respiration rate, being discreet is essential for obtaining an accurate reading. The correct approach is to avoid informing the patient that you are measuring their breathing because this awareness can potentially alter their natural breathing pattern. If a patient knows they're being observed for their respiratory rate, they might consciously change their breathing—either by holding their breath, breathing rapidly, or becoming anxious—which would lead to an inaccurate measurement.

By keeping the observation subtle, the healthcare provider can observe the patient's natural respiration without interference, ensuring that the readings reflect the patient's normal respiratory patterns. This practice is consistent with standard nursing protocols, which emphasize the importance of accurate vital signs in monitoring patient health.