Continued Respiratory Therapy Phone: 866-382-0799


How Does Tachypnea Increase the Risk of Aspiration?

Sarah Busser, MA, CCC-SLP, CBIS

April 22, 2022

Share:

Question

How does tachypnea increase the risk of aspiration?

Answer

Another thing to keep in mind is respiratory status and dysphagia. We know that respiratory rate and swallowing function are closely linked because to swallow, we have to be able to hold our breaths. When we have a respiratory rate over 30, we have to hold our breath for 1 to 2 seconds to swallow. That means a respiratory rate of 30 requires us to breathe every 2 seconds within that minute. If we have to hold our breath and breathe that quickly, then it increases the likelihood that that person, rather than exhaling, which is the normal pattern after swallowing, is going to gasp for a breath. It is going to be more challenging for them to manage. Now, a respiratory rate of 30 is the benchmark where we start to look for potential trouble. It does not mean, "No, they cannot swallow." There is a high risk for aspiration when we get above 30, into the 40s, and beyond. 

This Ask the Expert is an edited excerpt from the course, Brain Injury Effects on the Respiratory Systempresented by Sarah Busser, MA, CCC-SLP, CBIS.


sarah busser

Sarah Busser, MA, CCC-SLP, CBIS

Sarah Busser graduated Magna Cum Laude from the State University of New York at Geneseo with her bachelor's degree in Communication Disorders and Sciences and a minor in Sociology. She then completed her master's degree in Communication Sciences and Disorders at the University of Pittsburgh. Sarah has worked with adults in acute care, inpatient, and outpatient rehabilitation for over 7 years, and became a Certified Brain Injury Specialist in 2019. Her mission is to continue to develop resources that will improve service delivery for people with brain injuries, their families, and their communities. 


Related Courses

Brain Injury Effects on the Respiratory System
Presented by Sarah Busser, MA, CCC-SLP, CBIS
Video

Presenter

Sarah Busser, MA, CCC-SLP, CBIS
Course: #1452Level: Introductory1 Hour
  'early intervention is key in rehabilitation'   Read Reviews
Respiratory dysfunction is often a complication for patients with brain injuries. This introductory course reviews the respiratory system deficits following a brain injury. The course discusses the fundamental neurophysiology of respiratory mechanics and evidence-based treatment strategies for multidisciplinary care.

Obstructive Sleep Apnea and Anxiety: What is the Connection?
Presented by Kelvin Imo, DDS, IAOS-Diplomate Candidate
Video

Presenter

Kelvin Imo, DDS, IAOS-Diplomate Candidate
Course: #1536Level: Introductory1 Hour
  'none at this time'   Read Reviews
Evidence in current research suggests sleep apnea and anxiety are connected, creating ongoing consequences for an individual's quality of life if left untreated. The course discusses the interrelationship between the two disorders and the recognition of high-risk groups for practitioners providing care.

Discharges and Readmissions: How Can I Help?
Presented by Claire Aloan, MS, RRT-NPS, FAARC
Video

Presenter

Claire Aloan, MS, RRT-NPS, FAARC
Course: #1804Level: Intermediate1 Hour
  'great information, stressing the importance of communication all around'   Read Reviews
This course provides an overview of the discharge components and factors of potential readmission. The importance of avoiding readmissions and methods and resources to assist in this process is provided.

Respiratory Management of Patients With Neuromuscular Weakness Series: Review Recommendations and Best Practice
Presented by Duane Reed, EdD, RRT, RCP
Video

Presenter

Duane Reed, EdD, RRT, RCP
Course: #1827Level: Intermediate1 Hour
  'Good information, great presentation, all good'   Read Reviews
An essential concern in neuromuscular diseases (NMD) is respiratory failure. This course reviews guidelines and evidenced-based literature on the best practice respiratory management of patients with NMD. It is part of an NMD series but can be viewed as a stand-alone learning experience.

Burned Out: How to Heal and Protect Our Mental Health at Work
Presented by Sophie Nathenson, PhD, Medical Sociology
Video

Presenter

Sophie Nathenson, PhD, Medical Sociology
Course: #1578Level: Introductory1 Hour
  'She was very informative!!'   Read Reviews
In this course, participants learn about the condition of burnout and how workplace conditions impact our mental health. Key practices to heal from and prevent burnout are discussed, with attention given to mental-emotional well-being.

Our site uses cookies to improve your experience. By using our site, you agree to our Privacy Policy.