Certified Polysomnographic Technician (CPSGT) Practice Exam 2025 - Free CPSGT Practice Questions and Study Guide

The distinction between fatigue and sleepiness is crucial in understanding how they affect individuals. Fatigue generally refers to a state of persistent tiredness that does not solely stem from a lack of sleep; it can result from prolonged physical or mental exertion and can manifest as a lack of energy, feelings of weakness, or an overall diminished capacity to perform tasks. In contrast, sleepiness specifically refers to the biological drive to sleep, characterized by a decreased ability to maintain wakefulness. This drive can be influenced by the body's circadian rhythms and is directly related to whether the individual has had sufficient rest.

Therefore, option B accurately captures the primary difference: fatigue relates to an overall lack of energy, which could stem from various factors, whereas sleepiness is more about the physiological imperative to sleep and the challenge of staying awake. This understanding is vital for professionals in sleep medicine, as recognizing these different states can help guide assessments and interventions for patients experiencing sleep-related issues.