Which of the following phases of Selye's General Adaptation Syndrome (GAS) reflects a nurse's ability to successfully perform duties during a prolonged period of stress lasting weeks to months without any indication of observable impairment?

A. Exhaustion phase. The exhaustion phase occurs when the body's ability to cope with stress is depleted, leading to physical and psychological impairments such as fatigue, burnout, and increased susceptibility to illness. This phase does not align with maintaining performance over an extended period.
B. Alarm phase. The alarm phase is the initial reaction to stress, activating the sympathetic nervous system and triggering the "fight-or-flight" response. While it provides a short-term boost in alertness and energy, it is not sustainable for weeks to months without impairment.
C. Resistance phase. The resistance phase allows the body to adapt to prolonged stress, maintaining homeostasis and function without significant observable impairment. During this phase, the individual continues to perform duties effectively despite ongoing stress.
D. Adaptive phase. The General Adaptation Syndrome does not include an "adaptive phase." Adaptation occurs within the resistance phase, making this answer incorrect.

A. "When attending dialectical behavior therapy." Dialectical behavior therapy (DBT) is specifically designed to help individuals with borderline personality disorder (BPD) manage emotions and reduce self-harming behaviors. While therapy can bring up distressing emotions, it provides structured support and coping strategies. The risk of self-harm is lower when clients are actively engaged in treatment and receiving professional guidance.
B. "When getting married." Major life changes, including marriage, can be stressful for individuals with BPD, but they do not inherently pose the highest risk for self-harm. Support from a partner and structured therapy can help navigate emotional challenges. While instability in relationships can trigger distress, the protective factors of marriage may reduce immediate risk. Self-harm risk is typically higher in periods of transition without support.
C. "When discharged from the hospital." Clients with BPD often struggle with emotional regulation, and discharge represents a significant transition with decreased support. The sudden loss of a structured inpatient setting can increase feelings of abandonment and distress, leading to a heightened risk of self-harm. Ensuring a follow-up care plan and support system is crucial to reducing this risk after hospitalization.
D. "When attending narrative therapy." Narrative therapy helps clients reframe their experiences and build a stronger sense of identity. Although deep emotional topics may be explored, structured therapy provides a safe space for expression. Therapeutic interventions aim to reduce distress and teach coping mechanisms, decreasing the likelihood of self-harm. The highest risk occurs when structured support is suddenly removed.