Final answer:
Analgesics are the class of medications that provide pain relief without sedation, allowing the patient to remain conscious while pain is managed.
Step-by-step explanation:
The category of medications that provide pain relief without sedation is c. analgesics. These drugs are designed to relieve pain while the patient remains conscious. Common examples of analgesics include ibuprofen and acetaminophen. Unlike anesthetics, which induce unconsciousness and are generally used during surgeries, analgesics manage pain without affecting one's awareness. Opioids, such as morphine and codeine, can act as analgesics at lower doses but may cause drowsiness or loss of consciousness at higher doses. Non-opioid analgesics like aspirin and other Non-Steroidal Anti-Inflammatory Drugs (NSAIDs) are also widely used to treat pain.