Respiratory rate assessment is essential for detecting acute changes in a patient's condition. Despite this, research has shown that it is the most neglected vital sign in clinical practice. This literature review identified three key reasons for this: inadequate knowledge regarding respiratory rate assessment; nurses' perception of patient acuity; and lack of time. These factors suggest poor understanding of the importance of respiratory rate as a vital sign.
No takes yet. Share an insight, caveat, or question.
Malcolm Elliott (2016) studied this question.