Which of the following is assessed in the respiratory components of a physical exam?

The respiratory components of a physical exam primarily focus on assessing the functionality and health of the respiratory system. This includes the evaluation of respiratory rate, which measures how many breaths a dog takes in a minute. An abnormal respiratory rate can indicate various health issues, such as respiratory distress, pain, or illness, making it an essential parameter to observe during a physical examination.

While heart rate, skin elasticity, and lymph node size may be important indicators of overall health and condition in a canine patient, they are not specific measurements related to respiratory function. Heart rate is more closely associated with cardiovascular health, skin elasticity is often assessed for hydration status, and lymph node size can indicate immune response or infection. Therefore, assessing respiratory rate is critical in determining the health of the respiratory system and identifying potential problems.