What Does RR Mean in Medical Terms?

RR stands for respiratory rate. Number of breaths per minute.

respiratory rate

Number of breaths per minute.

Where you will see RR

You will most often see RR in respiratory and ventilation charts, observation charts and bedside assessments.

Example

A chart note might use “RR” as shorthand for respiratory rate when documenting a patient's care.

Related abbreviations

Browse the full Medical Abbreviations guide — 5,715 entries, searchable A–Z and by specialty.

Educational reference only. This guide is for learning and quick reference. Abbreviations vary between hospitals, countries and specialties, and some are discouraged because they can be misread. Always write and interpret orders using your own institution’s approved abbreviation list, and check anything unclear with the prescriber or your local policy.