A nurse is teaching about physiological responses to stress with a group of clients. The nurse should identify that which of the following changes reflect long-term physiological responses to stress? (Select all that apply)
Muscular tension, blood pressure, and triglycerides increase.
Epinephrine is released, increasing heart and respiratory rates.
Corticosteroid release increases stamina and impedes digestion.
Cortisol is released, increasing gluconeogenesis and reducing fluid loss.
Immune system functioning decreases, and risk of cancer increases.
Risk of depression, autoimmune disorders, and heart disease increases.
Correct Answer : A,D,E,F
The correct answer is: A, D, E, and F.
Choice A reason:
Muscular tension, blood pressure, and triglycerides increase. Long-term stress can lead to chronic muscle tension, elevated blood pressure, and increased triglyceride levels. Chronic muscle tension is a common response to prolonged stress, often resulting in pain and discomfort. Elevated blood pressure is a well-documented effect of chronic stress, which can increase the risk of cardiovascular diseases. Increased triglycerides are also associated with prolonged stress, contributing to metabolic syndrome and cardiovascular risk.
Choice B reason:
Epinephrine is released, increasing heart and respiratory rates. This response is more characteristic of acute stress rather than long-term stress. Epinephrine (adrenaline) is released during the “fight-or-flight” response, causing immediate increases in heart rate and respiratory rate. However, this is a short-term physiological response and not typically sustained over long periods.
Choice C reason:
Corticosteroid release increases stamina and impedes digestion. While corticosteroids like cortisol are released during stress, their primary long-term effect is not to increase stamina but to manage energy by increasing blood glucose levels through gluconeogenesis. Chronic cortisol release can indeed impede digestion by diverting energy away from non-essential functions like the digestive system.
Choice D reason:
Cortisol is released, increasing gluconeogenesis and reducing fluid loss. Cortisol, a key stress hormone, is released during long-term stress and increases gluconeogenesis, which is the production of glucose from non-carbohydrate sources. This helps maintain energy levels during prolonged stress. Cortisol also helps in reducing fluid loss by promoting sodium retention in the kidneys.
Choice E reason:
Immune system functioning decreases, and risk of cancer increases. Chronic stress can suppress the immune system, making the body more susceptible to infections and diseases. Prolonged immune suppression can also increase the risk of cancer as the body’s ability to detect and destroy abnormal cells is compromised.
Choice F reason:
Risk of depression, autoimmune disorders, and heart disease increases. Long-term stress is linked to an increased risk of depression and other mental health disorders due to the continuous release of stress hormones affecting brain function. It can also trigger autoimmune disorders by causing chronic inflammation and dysregulation of the immune system. Additionally, the persistent high levels of stress hormonees can lead to heart disease by promoting hypertension and other cardiovascular issues.
Nursing Test Bank
Naxlex Comprehensive Predictor Exams
Related Questions
Correct Answer is D
Explanation
Choice A reason:
Providing reading material about the surgery can be informative, but it may not be the best approach for someone who is already very nervous. It could potentially increase anxiety if the information is overwhelming or if the client misinterprets the material.
Choice B reason:
Suggesting a walk could serve as a distraction and help to calm the client's nerves. However, it might not address the underlying anxiety about the surgery itself. It's a temporary measure that doesn't offer emotional support or address the client's immediate concerns.
Choice C reason:
Referring the client to the pastoral care team could be beneficial if the client is seeking spiritual support or comfort. However, this should be based on the client's personal preferences and beliefs, and it may not be the most direct way to address the client's stated nervousness.
Choice D reason:
Engaging the client in a conversation about their feelings provides an opportunity for emotional support and can help the nurse understand the client's specific fears. This approach can lead to a more personalized care plan to alleviate anxiety.
Correct Answer is A
Explanation
Choice A reason:
Occupational therapists are trained to help individuals develop or regain the skills needed for daily living and working. They are particularly adept at assisting clients with work-related skills, making them an ideal choice for this client's plan of care.
Choice B reason:
While psychiatrists are essential for diagnosing and treating mental health conditions, their role is less focused on teaching work-related skills and more on managing the client's psychiatric treatment.
Choice C reason:
Social workers provide valuable support in connecting clients with community resources and supporting their psychosocial needs. However, they do not typically specialize in teaching work-related skills.
Choice D reason:
Psychologists may work with clients to address cognitive or emotional barriers to employment, but they do not typically provide hands-on training in work-related skills as occupational therapists do.
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