A nurse is caring for a patient who is scheduled for a surgical procedure. The nurse is reviewing the patient’s electronic medical record.
Which of the following findings places the patient at risk for a surgical complication? Select all that apply.

Choice A rationale
Academic pressure is a psychological stressor, not a physiological one. It involves mental or emotional strain or tension resulting from adverse or demanding circumstances, in this case, related to academic performance.
Choice B rationale
A burn injury is an example of a physiological stressor. Physiological stressors are related to physical or biological factors that strain the body’s resources. A burn injury places physical stress on the body as it tries to heal and recover.
Choice C rationale
Financial difficulties are a type of environmental stressor, not a physiological one. They involve external factors in a person’s environment that cause stress, such as financial problems or jobrelated stress.
Choice D rationale
A change in marital status is a type of psychosocial stressor, not a physiological one. It involves both psychological factors (such as emotions and behavior) and social factors (such as relationships and social interactions).

Choice A rationale
While the thickness of the tympanic membranes can indeed change with age, it typically increases rather than decreases. Thickening of the tympanic membranes can contribute to hearing loss by reducing the ability of the ear to transmit sound vibrations.
Choice B rationale
Tinnitus, or ringing in the ears, is not typically decreased in older adults. In fact, tinnitus is often more common in older individuals and can be a sign of age-related hearing loss.
Choice C rationale
A decreased ability to hear high-frequency sounds is a common physiological change associated with aging. This is often one of the first signs of age-related hearing loss.
Choice D rationale
Decreased ear wax is not typically associated with aging. In fact, some older adults may produce more ear wax, which can contribute to hearing problems if it becomes impacted.