A client is experiencing prolonged stress due to a chronic illness. According to the General Adaptation Syndrome (GAS), the client is in which stage?
Recovery
Alarm
Exhaustion
Resistance
The Correct Answer is C
Choice A reason: Recovery is not a formal stage in the General Adaptation Syndrome model. It may occur after successful adaptation or resolution of stress, but it is not one of the three defined stages. Including it as an option may reflect confusion with post-stress healing, which is not part of the GAS framework.
Choice B reason: The alarm stage is the initial response to a stressor, where the body activates the fight-or-flight mechanism. This involves the release of stress hormones like adrenaline and cortisol, increased heart rate, and heightened alertness. It is a short-term phase and does not represent prolonged stress.
Choice C reason: Exhaustion is the final stage of the General Adaptation Syndrome and occurs when the body’s adaptive mechanisms are depleted due to prolonged exposure to stress. At this point, the individual may experience fatigue, burnout, decreased immunity, and increased vulnerability to illness. This stage reflects the physiological and psychological toll of chronic stress.
Choice D reason: Resistance is the second stage of GAS, where the body attempts to adapt to the ongoing stressor. While physiological responses stabilize, the body remains on high alert. If the stress continues without resolution, the body eventually progresses to the exhaustion stage.
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Naxlex Comprehensive Predictor Exams
Related Questions
Correct Answer is D
Explanation
Choice A reason: Diet is a modifiable risk factor. Individuals can change their eating habits to reduce health risks such as obesity, cardiovascular disease, and diabetes.
Choice B reason: Physical activity level is modifiable. Even older adults can improve their health outcomes by increasing mobility and exercise.
Choice C reason: Alcohol consumption is a behavioral choice and therefore modifiable. Reducing or eliminating binge drinking can significantly lower health risks.
Choice D reason: Family history is a nonmodifiable risk factor. Genetic predisposition cannot be changed, although awareness of this risk can guide preventive strategies and early screening.
Correct Answer is ["A","D","E"]
Explanation
Choice A reason: Chronic stress activates the sympathetic nervous system, leading to increased heart rate. This is part of the "fight or flight" response, which prepares the body to respond to perceived threats.
Choice B reason: Blood pressure typically increases during stress due to vasoconstriction and elevated cardiac output. Decreased blood pressure is not a common physiological response to chronic stress.
Choice C reason: Chronic stress suppresses the immune system rather than enhancing it. Prolonged exposure to stress hormones like cortisol can impair immune function, increasing susceptibility to illness.
Choice D reason: Elevated blood glucose levels occur due to increased cortisol and adrenaline, which stimulate gluconeogenesis and reduce insulin sensitivity. This response is adaptive in acute stress but harmful when prolonged.
Choice E reason: Chronic stress can disrupt hormonal balance, including sex hormones, leading to decreased libido and sexual function. This is a well-documented effect of prolonged stress exposure.
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