Texas Certified Nursing Assistant (CNA)

What is the medical term for difficulty breathing?

1. Hypoxia

2. Apnea

3. Dyspnea

4. Bradypnea

The correct answer is: Dyspnea

The medical term for difficulty breathing is dyspnea. This term is derived from the Greek word "dys," meaning "bad" or "difficult," and "pnoea," which refers to breathing. Dyspnea can manifest as shortness of breath, a feeling of not getting enough air, or the perception of breathlessness. It is important for healthcare providers and nursing assistants to accurately recognize and communicate this symptom, as it can indicate various underlying health issues that may require further evaluation and intervention. Hypoxia refers to a deficiency in the amount of oxygen reaching the tissues, which can sometimes accompany dyspnea, but it does not specifically mean difficulty in breathing. Apnea denotes a temporary cessation of breathing, typically during sleep or due to a medical condition, and does not describe the sensation of struggling to breathe. Bradypnea is characterized by abnormally slow breathing, which is distinctly different from the experience of dyspnea. Understanding these terms is vital in providing effective care and communicating patient conditions accurately.