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 B
Explanation
Choice A Reason:
Atrophy refers to the reduction in size or wasting away of an organ or tissue due to a decrease in cell size or number. It is not a type of cell death but rather a process of cell shrinkage and loss of function. Therefore, it does not directly relate to the damage caused to nearby cells.
Choice B Reason:
This is the correct answer. Apoptosis is a form of programmed cell death that occurs in a controlled and regulated manner. It allows for the removal of damaged or unnecessary cells without causing an inflammatory response or damage to surrounding tissues. During apoptosis, cellular components are neatly packaged into vesicles called apoptotic bodies, which are then phagocytosed by neighboring cells or immune cells, preventing the release of harmful substances.
Choice C Reason:
Necrosis is a form of traumatic cell death that results from acute cellular injury. It often leads to the uncontrolled release of cellular contents, causing inflammation and damage to surrounding tissues. This process can be detrimental to nearby cells and is generally considered more harmful than apoptosis.
Choice D Reason:
Lysis refers to the breaking down or destruction of cells, often due to external factors such as toxins, infections, or immune responses. Like necrosis, lysis can result in the release of cellular contents into the surrounding environment, leading to inflammation and damage to nearby cells.
Correct Answer is B
Explanation
Choice A Reason:
Bronchoconstriction is the narrowing of the airways in the lungs due to the tightening of surrounding smooth muscle. This response is typically associated with conditions like asthma and is not a common reaction to acute stress. During stress, the sympathetic nervous system actually causes bronchodilation to increase airflow and oxygen delivery to the muscles.
Choice B Reason:
This is the correct answer. Increased glucose production is a typical response to acute stress. The body releases stress hormones like adrenaline and cortisol, which stimulate the liver to produce more glucose. This process, known as glycogenolysis, ensures that the body has enough energy to handle the stressor. This response is part of the “fight-or-flight” mechanism, preparing the body for immediate physical activity.
Choice C Reason:
Decreased cortisol release is not expected during acute stress. In fact, cortisol levels typically increase as part of the body’s stress response. Cortisol helps to mobilize energy stores, suppress inflammation, and support cardiovascular function. Therefore, this choice is incorrect.
Choice D Reason:
Bradycardia, or a slower than normal heart rate, is not a typical response to acute stress. Instead, the sympathetic nervous system increases heart rate (tachycardia) to ensure that more blood is pumped to vital organs and muscles. This helps the body to respond more effectively to the stressor.
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