Intermediate
Technical
In the Industry Vocabulary Test
tachypnea
Pronunciation: tak-ip-NEE-ah
Abnormally rapid breathing rate above normal age-specific parameters.
Full Definition
A clinical sign characterized by an elevated respiratory rate that exceeds the normal range for a patient's age group. In pediatric medicine, normal respiratory rates vary significantly with age, from 30-60 breaths per minute in newborns to 12-16 in adolescents. Tachypnea may indicate respiratory distress, metabolic acidosis, fever, pain, or other underlying pathological processes requiring clinical evaluation and intervention.
Usage
Usage note: Note the spelling with 'pn' not 'pne'; distinguish from dyspnea (difficulty breathing).
In Context
- "The infant presented with tachypnea and increased work of breathing." — Emergency assessment
- "Persistent tachypnea prompted further respiratory evaluation." — Clinical progress note
Also known as
rapid breathing
increased respiratory rate
Contrasted with
bradypnea
normal respiratory rate
Don't confuse with
tachycardia
dyspnea