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 B
Explanation
Choice A reason:
Negative Operant Conditioning involves the removal of an unpleasant stimulus to increase the likelihood of a behavior being repeated. In this scenario, the nurse is not removing an unpleasant stimulus but is instead taking over a task to prevent conflict, which does not align with the principles of negative operant conditioning.
Choice B reason:
Positive Role Modeling is demonstrated when an individual exhibits behavior that is beneficial and can be emulated by others. By taking the tray to avoid conflict, the nurse is showing understanding and flexibility, qualities that are positive and can be modeled in a healthcare setting.
Choice C reason:
Aggressiveness is characterized by hostile or forceful behavior or attitudes. The nurse's action of taking the tray to the kitchen is not aggressive; it is a non-confrontational approach to managing the situation.
Choice D reason:
Assertiveness involves standing up for one's own rights in a direct, honest way, while also respecting the rights of others. The nurse's behavior is not assertive, as they are not addressing the client's refusal directly but are instead choosing to complete the task themselves to avoid confrontation.
Correct Answer is C
Explanation
Choice A Reason:
While suggesting the client discuss their concerns with their physician is a valid response, it may not provide the immediate emotional support the client is seeking. It's important for the nurse to address the client's current anxiety and provide reassurance before referring them to their physician.
Choice B Reason:
This response dismisses the client's fears and may come across as insensitive. It's crucial to acknowledge the client's emotions and provide a supportive environment where they feel heard and understood.
Choice C Reason:
Encouraging the client to express their fears allows the nurse to provide emotional support and helps in understanding the client's perspective. This approach fosters a therapeutic relationship and can help alleviate the client's anxiety.
Choice D Reason:
While recommending lifestyle changes is beneficial for overall health, this response does not address the client's immediate emotional needs. The nurse should first provide support for the client's expressed fears before discussing lifestyle modifications.
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