Measuring respirations tests your ability to count a resident's breathing rate accurately. A key aspect of this skill is counting without the resident knowing, because people tend to change their breathing pattern when they're aware of being observed.
Equipment and Supplies Needed
- Watch with a second hand
- Pen and recording form
Step-by-Step Procedure
Here is an abbreviated overview of how to perform Measuring Respirations during the Florida CNA clinical skills exam. The evaluator will score you on specific checkpoints, and every step matters.
- This skill is typically performed immediately after taking the pulse: keep your fingers on the wrist so the resident thinks you're still counting the pulse.
- Watch the resident's chest rise and fall.
- Count each complete cycle (one rise + one fall) as one respiration.
- Count for one full minute.
- Record the respiration rate on the form; it must be within plus or minus 2 breaths per minute of the nurse's measurement.
- Do NOT tell the resident you're counting their respirations: this will change their breathing pattern.
- One respiration = one complete inhalation + exhalation cycle.
- Count for a full 60 seconds for accuracy.
Common Mistakes on the Prometric Test
Based on our experience preparing thousands of students for Florida's CNA state exam, here are the most common mistakes candidates make on this skill:
- Telling the resident: If the resident knows you're watching their breathing, they'll consciously change it, leading to an inaccurate count. Keep your fingers on the wrist to maintain the illusion.
- Counting inhalations and exhalations separately: One respiration is one complete breath cycle (in + out), not two separate movements.
- Short-counting: As with pulse, count for the full 60 seconds.
Test Day Tips for Measuring Respirations
- Practice the smooth transition from pulse to respirations: keep your fingers on the wrist and shift your gaze to the chest.
Frequently Asked Questions
Why can't you tell the resident you're counting respirations?
People naturally change their breathing pattern when they know they're being observed. Counting respirations discretely (usually right after taking a pulse) gives a more accurate measurement of their natural breathing rate.
Master This Skill with Video Demonstrations
Reading the steps is a great start, but watching the skill performed correctly makes a huge difference on test day. Our online CNA course includes:
- HD video demonstration of Measuring Respirations performed exactly as Prometric expects
- Detailed narration explaining each checkpoint the evaluator looks for
- Practice scenarios and tips from experienced CNA instructors
- All 22 clinical skills plus written exam preparation
Start with a free course preview. See the quality of our video instruction before you commit.
All 22 CNA Clinical Skills
See the full CNA clinical skills guide, or jump to any skill: Handwashing · Mouth Care (Brushing Teeth) · Hand and Nail Care · Denture Care · Feeding a Resident · Taking a Pulse · Changing an Occupied Bed · Dressing with One-Sided Weakness · Female Catheter Care · Bedpan Assistance · Emptying Urinary Drainage Bag · Female Perineal Care · Range of Motion (Lower Body) · Range of Motion (Elbow and Wrist) · Range of Motion (Shoulder) · Partial Bed Bath · Change of Position · Wheelchair Transfer · Foot Care · Ambulation with Gait Belt · Indirect Care.
Written by Jaime Arias, owner of Florida CNA Online since 2020.
Medically reviewed by Magalys Herrera Pérez, Licenciada en Enfermería (Licentiate in Nursing), August 2026.