Wisconsin CNA State Exam Vocabulary Practice

What is the meaning of drowsy in a medical context?

1. Difficulty breathing

2. Sleepy and lethargic; ready to fall asleep

3. Material used to cover a wound

4. Difficulty swallowing

The correct answer is: Sleepy and lethargic; ready to fall asleep

In a medical context, the term drowsy refers to a state of being sleepy and lethargic, where a person is inclined to fall asleep or is in a light state of sleep. This can indicate a reduced level of alertness or responsiveness, which may be an important observation for healthcare providers during assessments of a patient’s condition. Recognizing drowsiness is crucial, as it may be a symptom of various medical issues, such as medication side effects, neurological conditions, or other health problems that require attention. The other choices reflect different medical terms and conditions that are unrelated to the meaning of drowsiness. Difficulty breathing relates to respiratory issues, material used to cover a wound is associated with wound care, and difficulty swallowing pertains to dysphagia. None of these options capture the essence of what it means to be drowsy in a medical context.