An indicator that an individual is experiencing acute stress is:
Decreased respirations
Tachycardia
Hair loss
Pupil constriction
The Correct Answer is B
Choice A: Decreased Respirations
Decreased respirations, or a slower breathing rate, are not typically associated with acute stress. In fact, acute stress often leads to an increase in respiratory rate as part of the body’s “fight or flight” response. This response is mediated by the autonomic nervous system, which prepares the body to respond to a perceived threat by increasing heart rate, respiratory rate, and blood pressure.
Choice B: Tachycardia
Tachycardia, or an increased heart rate, is a common indicator of acute stress. When an individual experiences acute stress, the body releases stress hormones such as adrenaline and cortisol. These hormones stimulate the heart to beat faster, providing more oxygen and nutrients to the muscles and brain to prepare for a rapid response to the stressor. Tachycardia is a hallmark of the acute stress response and can be easily measured by checking the pulse.
Choice C: Hair Loss
Hair loss is generally associated with chronic stress rather than acute stress. Chronic stress can lead to conditions such as telogen effluvium, where hair follicles enter a resting phase and hair falls out more easily. However, this process takes time and is not an immediate response to acute stress. Therefore, hair loss is not a reliable indicator of acute stress.
Choice D: Pupil Constriction
Pupil constriction, or miosis, is not typically associated with acute stress. In fact, acute stress usually causes pupil dilation (mydriasis) as part of the “fight or flight” response. Dilated pupils allow more light to enter the eyes, improving vision and awareness of the surroundings. Pupil constriction is more commonly associated with relaxation or the body’s “rest and digest” state, mediated by the parasympathetic nervous system.
Nursing Test Bank
Naxlex Comprehensive Predictor Exams
Related Questions
Correct Answer is A
Explanation
Choice A: Size
Muscular hypertrophy refers to the increase in the size of muscle cells12. This process typically occurs as a result of strength training, where the muscles are subjected to stress and damage, leading to the repair and growth of muscle fibers. The increase in muscle cell size enhances muscle strength and mass, making it a key goal for athletes and bodybuilders.
Choice B: Vacuoles
Vacuoles are membrane-bound organelles found in cells, primarily involved in storage and transport of substances3. While vacuoles play important roles in cellular function, they are not directly related to muscular hypertrophy. The primary change in muscular hypertrophy is the increase in muscle cell size, not the number or size of vacuoles.
Choice C: Types
Muscle cells can be categorized into different types, such as slow-twitch (Type I) and fast-twitch (Type II) fibers4. However, muscular hypertrophy does not involve a change in the types of muscle cells. Instead, it focuses on the growth and enlargement of existing muscle fibers, regardless of their type.
Choice D: Number
An increase in the number of muscle cells is referred to as hyperplasia, which is different from hypertrophy. Hyperplasia involves the formation of new muscle cells, whereas hypertrophy involves the enlargement of existing muscle cells. Current evidence suggests that hypertrophy, rather than hyperplasia, is the primary mechanism for muscle growth in response to strength training.
Correct Answer is D
Explanation
Choice A: Minimal Effect on Vessels
A reduction in blood pH, which indicates acidosis, does not have a minimal effect on blood vessels. Acidosis can significantly impact vascular tone and function. Therefore, this choice is incorrect as it underestimates the physiological changes that occur in response to a decrease in pH.
Choice B: No Effect on Vessels
Similarly, stating that a reduction in blood pH has no effect on vessels is inaccurate. Blood pH is tightly regulated, and deviations from the normal range (7.35-7.45) can lead to significant physiological responses. Acidosis can alter vascular tone, making this choice incorrect.
Choice C: Vasodilation
While vasodilation can occur in response to certain conditions, a reduction in blood pH typically leads to vasoconstriction rather than vasodilation. Vasodilation is more commonly associated with an increase in blood pH (alkalosis) or other factors such as increased levels of nitric oxide or prostaglandins.
Choice D: Vasoconstriction
When the pH of blood reduces, indicating acidosis, it often leads to vasoconstriction. This response is mediated by chemoreceptors that detect changes in pH and stimulate the vasomotor center to increase vascular tone. Vasoconstriction helps to maintain blood pressure and ensure adequate perfusion of vital organs during acidosis. Therefore, this is the correct answer.
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