What is defined as a cessation of breathing for more than 10 seconds?

In the context of respiratory definitions, the term that refers to an interruption in breathing for more than 10 seconds is apnea. Apnea signifies a temporary pause in breathing, which can occur in various clinical situations, including sleep disorders, respiratory conditions, or certain neurological issues.

This physiological event is characterized by a complete halt in airflow, distinguishing it from other respiratory terms such as hypopnea, which denotes shallow or inadequate breathing rather than a complete cessation. While dyspnea refers to the subjective experience of breathing difficulty, an apneic episode specifically describes the occurrence of apnea, emphasizing the duration and complete stoppage of breath.

Understanding the implications of apnea is crucial, especially in nursing and healthcare contexts, as prolonged episodes can lead to significant physiological stress and require immediate assessment and intervention to ensure patient safety and to address any underlying conditions.