Which term describes a patient who opens their eyes to tactile stimulus and responds slowly?

Obtundation is the most appropriate term for describing a patient who opens their eyes in response to a tactile stimulus and shows a slow response. This condition reflects a state of reduced alertness and diminished awareness, where the individual may engage in contact but does so in a sluggish or delayed manner. Patients who are obtunded often require more substantial stimuli to elicit a response than those who are fully alert, which corresponds perfectly with the scenario described.

In contrast, stupor refers to a state of near-unconsciousness, where a patient only responds to vigorous or painful stimuli and has very limited awareness. Comatose denotes a complete lack of wakefulness and responsiveness, meaning the patient does not respond to any stimuli, including tactile ones. Lethargy, while indicating excessive drowsiness or sluggishness, usually allows for more responsive interaction compared to obtundation. Therefore, the characteristics of the patient described align best with the definition of obtundation.