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 Reason:
Norepinephrine is a key neurotransmitter released by the sympathetic nervous system during the “fight-or-flight” response. It plays a crucial role in preparing the body to respond to stress by increasing heart rate, blood pressure, and blood flow to muscles, as well as dilating the airways. These physiological changes are essential for coping with acute stress.
Choice B Reason:
Cortisol is a hormone released by the adrenal glands in response to stress, but it is primarily associated with the hypothalamic-pituitary-adrenal (HPA) axis rather than the sympathetic nervous system. While cortisol contributes to the body’s overall stress response by increasing blood sugar levels and suppressing the immune system, it is not the primary mediator of the acute “fight-or-flight” response.
Choice C Reason:
ACTH (adrenocorticotropic hormone) is a hormone produced by the pituitary gland that stimulates the adrenal glands to release cortisol. It is part of the HPA axis and plays a role in the body’s long-term stress response, but it is not directly involved in the immediate activation of the sympathetic nervous system.
Choice D Reason:
Glucagon is a hormone produced by the pancreas that raises blood glucose levels by promoting the breakdown of glycogen to glucose in the liver. While it can be involved in the body’s response to stress by ensuring an adequate supply of glucose, it is not a primary mediator of the acute stress response mediated by the sympathetic nervous system.
Correct Answer is D
Explanation
Choice A Reason:
Fat necrosis occurs when fatty tissues are damaged, leading to the release of enzymes that break down fat cells. This type of necrosis is commonly seen in the pancreas and breast tissue, often due to trauma or pancreatitis. It is not typically associated with brain tissue.
Choice B Reason:
Coagulative necrosis is characterized by the preservation of the basic outline of the coagulated cells for a few days after cell death. This type of necrosis is usually seen in tissues affected by ischemia, such as the heart, kidneys, and adrenal glands. However, it is not the typical pattern of necrosis seen in brain tissue.
Choice C Reason:
Caseous necrosis is a form of cell death in which the tissue maintains a cheese-like appearance. It is most commonly associated with tuberculosis infections in the lungs. This type of necrosis is not typically seen in brain tissue.
Choice D Reason:
Liquefactive necrosis is the correct answer. This type of necrosis occurs when the tissue becomes soft and liquefied, often forming a pus-filled cavity. It is commonly seen in the brain due to ischemic injury or bacterial infections. The high lipid content and low structural support in brain tissue make it particularly susceptible to liquefactive necrosis.
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