Dispnea is best described as which symptom?

• A. Difficulty breathing
• B. Absence of breathing
• C. Headache
• D. Nausea

Answer: (A)

Dyspnea is the sensation of difficult or labored breathing, so it is best described as difficulty breathing. The other options—absence of breathing, headache, and nausea—are different symptoms and do not describe the breathing struggle that dyspnea represents. In practice, you’d look for signs such as rapid or uneven breathing, use of extra muscles to breathe, and possibly low oxygen saturation. As a CNA, respond by helping the person sit up or raise the head of the bed, keep the airway clear, administer oxygen if it’s prescribed, and seek help promptly if breathing worsens or the person can’t speak in full sentences.