A nurse is assisting with teaching a class about sources of stress. The nurse should include that which of the following is an example of a physiological stressor?

Choice A reason : Prolonged stress can lead to impaired immune function. When a person is stressed, the body's stress response can suppress the immune system, making it less effective at fighting off infections. This is because stress hormones like cortisol can inhibit the production and function of white blood cells, such as lymphocytes, which are crucial for the immune response. Additionally, chronic stress can lead to inflammation and reduce the body's ability to respond to immunological challenges, increasing the risk of illness and infection.

Choice B reason : Decreased blood pressure is not typically a manifestation of prolonged stress. In fact, stress can lead to increased blood pressure due to the release of stress hormones that cause vasoconstriction and an increase in heart rate. Over time, this can contribute to hypertension and cardiovascular problems.

Choice C reason : Hypoglycemia, or low blood sugar, is not a direct manifestation of prolonged stress. However, stress can affect blood sugar levels. For individuals with diabetes, stress can make it harder to control blood sugar as stress hormones can cause blood sugar levels to rise. In non-diabetic individuals, stress typically does not cause hypoglycemia.

Choice D reason : Anemia, a condition characterized by a lack of healthy red blood cells, is not a direct result of prolonged stress. Anemia can be caused by a variety of factors, including nutritional deficiencies, chronic diseases, or genetic conditions, but it is not commonly linked to stress.

Choice A reason : Trust vs. Mistrust.The stage of Trust vs. Mistrust is the first stage of Erikson's theory of psychosocial development, occurring from birth to approximately 18 months of age. In this stage, the infant is uncertain about the world and looks towards their primary caregiver for stability and consistency of care. If the caregiver is reliable, consistent, and nurturing, the child will develop a sense of trust, believing that the world is safe and that people are dependable and affectionate. This sense of trust allows the child to feel secure even when threatened and extends into their other relationships, maintaining their sense of security amidst potential threats.

Choice B reason : Autonomy vs. Shame and Doubt.The stage of Autonomy vs. Shame and Doubt is the second stage of Erikson's theory, spanning the toddler years from 18 months to three years. In this stage, toddlers begin to assert their independence by making choices and taking control over their actions. Success in this stage leads to feelings of autonomy, while failure results in feelings of shame and doubt. However, this stage is not applicable to the scenario described, as it involves an infant, not a toddler.

Choice C reason : Identity vs. Role Confusion.Identity vs. Role Confusion is the fifth stage, occurring during the teen years from 12 to 18. This stage is characterized by the exploration of personal identity and the development of a sense of self. The scenario provided does not pertain to an adolescent, so this stage is not relevant to the infant's experience.

Choice D reason : Integrity vs. Despair.The stage of Integrity vs. Despair is the eighth and final stage of Erikson's theory, occurring in older adulthood from 65 to death. This stage involves reflecting on one's life and either concluding it with a sense of integrity and fulfillment or with a sense of despair over a life misspent. This stage is not applicable to the infant described in the scenario.