Final answer:
A patient who does not respond to both verbal and tactile stimuli is classified as unresponsive. This is a serious medical condition that indicates a lack of awareness and requires immediate attention to determine the cause.
Step-by-step explanation:
A patient who does not respond to verbal or tactile stimuli is: c. unresponsive.
When evaluating a patient's level of consciousness, healthcare professionals use specific terms to describe their observations. If a patient does not react to verbal or tactile stimuli, they are considered unresponsive. This is distinct from being semiconscious, disoriented, or lethargic, all of which imply some level of responsiveness or awareness.
An unresponsive patient is unable to perceive or respond to their environment, which is a serious condition that requires immediate medical attention to determine the underlying cause. It is important to note that while conditions such as coma or certain neurological injuries can lead to unresponsiveness, only a thorough medical evaluation can provide an accurate diagnosis.