What is the term for the absence of breathing?

Apnea is the medical term that refers to the temporary or permanent absence of breathing. It is a critical condition that can occur during sleep or in various health conditions, and it can lead to significant health risks if not addressed. Understanding this term is essential for a Certified Nursing Assistant, as recognizing and responding to episodes of apnea is vital for patient safety and care.

Bradypnea refers to a slower than normal breathing rate, tachypnea indicates rapid breathing, and dyspnea describes the sensation of difficult or labored breathing. While all these terms are related to respiratory function, apnea specifically defines the complete cessation of breathing, making it distinct and key to understand in the context of respiratory care.