Chronic activation of stress hormones can lead to:
Select all that apply:
Depression
Impaired cognitive function
Autoimmune disease
Overactive immune function
Cardiovascular disease
Correct Answer : A,B,C,E
Choice A Reason:
Chronic stress can significantly impact mental health, leading to conditions such as depression. The persistent activation of the stress response system, particularly the release of cortisol, can alter brain function and structure, contributing to mood disorders. Studies have shown that prolonged exposure to stress hormones can lead to changes in the brain that are associated with depression.
Choice B Reason:
Impaired cognitive function is another consequence of chronic stress. Elevated levels of cortisol over an extended period can damage the hippocampus, a region of the brain involved in memory and learning. This can result in difficulties with concentration, memory, and decision-making. Chronic stress has been linked to cognitive decline and an increased risk of neurodegenerative diseases.
Choice C Reason:
Chronic stress can also affect the immune system, leading to autoimmune diseases. The continuous activation of the stress response can cause immune dysregulation, where the body’s immune system mistakenly attacks its own tissues. This can result in conditions such as rheumatoid arthritis, lupus, and other autoimmune disorders.
Choice D Reason:
Overactive immune function is not typically associated with chronic stress. Instead, chronic stress often leads to a weakened immune response, making the body more susceptible to infections and illnesses. Therefore, this choice is incorrect.
Choice E Reason:
Cardiovascular disease is a well-documented consequence of chronic stress. The persistent release of stress hormones like adrenaline and cortisol can lead to increased blood pressure, heart rate, and the formation of artery-clogging deposits. These changes can increase the risk of heart disease, heart attacks, and strokes.
Nursing Test Bank
Naxlex Comprehensive Predictor Exams
Related Questions
Correct Answer is ["A","C"]
Explanation
Choice A Reason:
Acidosis is indicated by a pH lower than the normal range of 7.35-7.45. In this case, the patient’s pH is 7.3, which confirms acidosis. Acidosis can be caused by either respiratory or metabolic factors, but the low pH alone confirms the presence of acidosis.
Choice B Reason:
Compensation refers to the body’s attempt to return the pH to normal by adjusting the levels of CO2 or HCO3-. In this case, the HCO3- level is within the normal range (22-26 mEq/L), indicating that there is no metabolic compensation occurring. Therefore, this choice is incorrect.
Choice C Reason:
Respiratory acidosis is indicated by an elevated PaCO2 level, which is higher than the normal range of 36-44 mmHg. The patient’s PaCO2 is 48 mmHg, suggesting that the acidosis is due to respiratory factors. This is consistent with the patient’s history of smoking and symptoms of respiratory distress.
Choice D Reason:
Alkalosis is indicated by a pH higher than the normal range of 7.35-7.45. Since the patient’s pH is 7.3, which is below the normal range, this indicates acidosis, not alkalosis. Therefore, this choice is incorrect.
Choice E Reason:
Metabolic acidosis is indicated by a low HCO3- level. In this case, the patient’s HCO3- level is within the normal range (25 mEq/L), indicating that the acidosis is not metabolic. Therefore, this choice is incorrect.
Correct Answer is D
Explanation
Choice A: Calcium
Calcium plays a crucial role in various physiological processes, including muscle contraction, blood clotting, and nerve transmission. While calcium is essential for maintaining overall health, it is not directly associated with changes in blood pH. Calcium levels are tightly regulated by hormones such as parathyroid hormone (PTH) and calcitonin, but these do not significantly influence blood pH.
Choice B: Sodium
Sodium is a major extracellular electrolyte that helps regulate fluid balance, nerve function, and muscle contraction. Although sodium is vital for maintaining osmotic balance and blood pressure, it does not directly affect blood pH. Sodium levels are primarily controlled by the kidneys and hormones like aldosterone, which do not have a direct impact on the acid-base balance of the blood.
Choice C: Magnesium
Magnesium is involved in over 300 biochemical reactions in the body, including protein synthesis, muscle and nerve function, and blood glucose control. While magnesium is important for overall health, it does not have a direct role in altering blood pH. Magnesium levels are regulated by the kidneys and are essential for maintaining normal muscle and nerve function, but they do not directly influence the acid-base balance.
Choice D: Potassium
Potassium is a key intracellular electrolyte that plays a significant role in maintaining the acid-base balance of the blood. Changes in potassium levels can affect the pH of the blood. For example, hyperkalemia (high potassium levels) can lead to acidosis, while hypokalemia (low potassium levels) can lead to alkalosis. Potassium helps regulate the hydrogen ion concentration in the blood, which directly impacts the pH. Therefore, potassium is the electrolyte most closely associated with changes in blood pH.
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