A nurse notices abnormal lab results in red on the EHF. What is the nurse's best action?

A. Activation of the parasympathetic nervous system: The parasympathetic system promotes “rest and digest” responses, including slowed heart rate and relaxation, which are opposite to the observed acute stress signs.

B. Decreased blood flow to muscles: During acute stress, blood flow to muscles actually increases to prepare for rapid physical response. Decreased perfusion would impair the body’s ability to respond to stress.

C. Release of insulin: Insulin primarily regulates blood glucose levels. During acute stress, insulin secretion is often suppressed to allow elevated glucose for energy, making this unrelated to the immediate stress response.

D. Activation of the sympathetic nervous system: The sympathetic nervous system triggers the “fight or flight” response, leading to tachycardia, rapid respirations, increased muscle tone, and mobilization of energy stores. These physiological changes align with the signs observed in acute stress reactions.

A. A patient replaces prescribed heart medication with herbal supplements: Alternative medicine involves using nonconventional therapies in place of standard medical treatments. Replacing prescribed medication with herbal remedies exemplifies this approach and carries potential risks if the conventional treatment is necessary for disease management.

B. A patient receives chemotherapy and uses yoga to manage stress: Using complementary therapies alongside standard medical treatment is considered complementary, not alternative medicine. Yoga in this scenario supports symptom management but does not replace conventional therapy.

C. A patient incorporates a balanced diet to support their diabetes management: Dietary management is part of conventional, evidence-based care for diabetes. While healthy, it does not represent alternative medicine because it complements standard treatment protocols.

D. A patient uses meditation alongside medication for hypertension: Meditation is a complementary approach when used with prescribed medications. It does not replace standard care, so it falls under complementary, not alternative, medicine.