Which of the following are physiologic manifestations which occur in the alarm stage of the General Adaptation Syndrome? (SELECT ALL THAT APPLY)
decreased blood glucose
Increased mental acuity
Increased urine retention
increased bronchial dilation
decreased pupil size
Correct Answer : B,C,D
B. Increased mental acuity, or heightened alertness and cognitive function, is a characteristic response during the alarm stage of GAS. The body's stress response enhances mental focus and perception to help the individual recognize and respond to the stressor effectively.
C. During the alarm stage of GAS, the sympathetic nervous system is activated, leading to the release of adrenaline (epinephrine) and norepinephrine. These hormones stimulate the kidneys to conserve water and sodium, leading to decreased urine output and increased urine retention. Therefore, increased urine retention is an expected physiologic manifestation in the alarm stage.
D. During the alarm stage, the sympathetic nervous system activation leads to bronchodilation, allowing for increased airflow to the lungs. This facilitates improved oxygenation of the blood and enhances the individual's ability to respond to the stressor by increasing oxygen delivery to tissues.
A. During the alarm stage of GAS, the body initiates the fight-or-flight response, which leads to the release of stress hormones such as cortisol and adrenaline. These hormones increase blood glucose levels through processes like glycogenolysis and gluconeogenesis to provide energy for the body to respond to the stressor. Therefore, decreased blood glucose is not an expected manifestation in the alarm stage.
E. Decreased pupil size: During the alarm stage of GAS, the sympathetic nervous system is activated, leading to the dilation of pupils (mydriasis). This allows for improved visual acuity and peripheral vision, enhancing the individual's ability to detect potential threats or stimuli in the environment.

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Naxlex Comprehensive Predictor Exams
Related Questions
Correct Answer is D
Explanation
D. Impaired immunity is a serious complication of prolonged stress that can have significant implications for overall health and susceptibility to illness. Chronic stress has been linked to dysregulation of the immune system, leading to decreased immune function and increased susceptibility to infections, autoimmune disorders, and other illnesses. Impaired immunity can compromise the body's ability to fight off pathogens and may contribute to the development or exacerbation of various health conditions.
A. Increased muscle tension is a common physiological response to stress but it is not typically considered a serious complication. Prolonged muscle tension can lead to discomfort, headaches, and musculoskeletal issues, but it is not usually life-threatening or associated with severe complications.
B. Altered sleep patterns, such as insomnia or disrupted sleep, can be significant consequences of prolonged stress. Chronic sleep disturbances can negatively impact physical health, cognitive function, and emotional well-being. While altered sleep patterns can have serious implications for overall health and quality of life, they are not typically considered life-threatening in the short term.
C. Increased peristalsis refers to heightened movement of the gastrointestinal tract, which can result in symptoms such as diarrhea or gastrointestinal discomfort. While gastrointestinal disturbances are common manifestations of stress, they are generally not considered the most serious complication of prolonged stress. However, severe or persistent gastrointestinal symptoms may warrant medical evaluation and management.
Correct Answer is A
Explanation
A. This statement suggests that the client may have sleep-disordered breathing, such as obstructive sleep apnea, which can disrupt the client's sleep patterns and affect their overall sleep quality. The nurse may want to inquire further about the frequency and severity of the snoring, as well as any associated symptoms such as daytime fatigue or observed pauses in breathing during sleep.
B. This statement indicates that emotional stressors, such as arguments or conflicts, may impact the client's sleep patterns. The nurse may want to explore how often these conflicts occur and how they affect the client's ability to fall asleep or stay asleep. Additionally, the nurse may inquire about coping strategies or interventions that the client and their partner use to address conflicts and minimize their impact on sleep.
C. This statement suggests that the client experiences deep or heavy sleep, which may or may not be problematic depending on the context. While deep sleep can be indicative of good sleep quality, it may also raise concerns about the client's ability to awaken in the event of an emergency or the presence of a sleep disorder such as hypersomnia. The nurse may want to inquire further about the client's overall sleep duration, sleep latency, and any difficulties with waking up in the morning.
D. This statement suggests that the client may experience sleep talking, which is a common sleep phenomenon. While sleep talking itself is typically benign, it may indicate underlying sleep disturbances such as sleep fragmentation or abnormal sleep cycles. The nurse may want to ask additional questions to assess the frequency and content of the sleep talking, as well as any potential impacts on the client's sleep quality or daytime functioning.
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