The term EUPNÉIQUE is part of the medical and scientific vocabulary. As a healthcare professional, is it possible to include it in a progress report? The answer is yesBut you still need to understand what it means and how to use it properly.

What does "Eupneic" mean?

👉 Eupneic means normal breathing.

But then, what exactly does a normal breathing?

Characteristics of normal breathing

✔️ Typeabdominal or thoracic

✔️ Frequencyfor an adult at rest, between 12 and 20 breaths per minute

✔️ Amplitudenormal, deep or superficial

✔️ Regularityuniform or irregular but constant respiratory movements

✔️ No signs of respiratory distressno pulling, wheezing, panting or use of accessory muscles

✔️ Normal color skin and mucous membranes

Eupnea: a precise term to be used with care

📌 Why is this important?

Normal breathing is calm, regular and effortless. To enter "eupneic" in a nursing note, make sure that all components of normal breathing were evaluated.

❌ Beware of inaccuracies!

An indication of "breathing between 12 and 20 per minute" without specifying amplitude, regularity or the presence of signs of distress may be insufficient for an accurate clinical assessment.

✅ Good practice Always record a detailed assessment of vital signs to ensure optimal clinical follow-up and avoid monitoring errors.

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