What is the term for a decrease in the number of respirations?

The term that describes a decrease in the number of respirations is bradypnea. This condition is characterized by a slower-than-normal respiratory rate, typically defined as fewer than 12 breaths per minute in an adult. Bradypnea can occur in various situations, including during sleep, in response to certain medications, or due to medical conditions affecting the respiratory center in the brain.

Understanding this term is crucial in patient care, as recognizing changes in a patient's respiratory rate can provide important information about their overall health and help in diagnosing potential respiratory issues. Monitoring for bradypnea can be especially significant in patients with respiratory illnesses, neurological conditions, or drug overdoses, where a decrease in breathing rate may indicate a need for immediate medical intervention.