Final answer:
Cheyne-Stokes respiration is a breathing pattern characterized by alternating periods of deep, rapid breathing followed by shallow, slow breathing, with regular intervals of apnea (temporary absence of breathing). It can occur due to various conditions and indicates an impaired control of breathing by the brainstem.
Step-by-step explanation:
The correct answer is a) Cheyne-Stokes respiration. Cheyne-Stokes respiration is a breathing pattern characterized by alternating periods of deep, rapid breathing followed by shallow, slow breathing, with regular intervals of apnea (temporary absence of breathing). This pattern can occur due to various conditions such as heart failure, brain injury, or drug overdose. It indicates an impaired control of breathing by the brainstem.