A nurse is assisting with teaching a class about sources of stress. The nurse should include that which of the following is an example of a physiological stressor?

Choice A reason : Increase in basal metabolic rate.During NREM sleep, particularly in the deeper stages, the basal metabolic rate (BMR) actually decreases. This reduction in BMR is part of the restorative processes that occur during sleep, conserving energy for the body to use in repair and growth.

Choice B reason : Reduced secretion of growth hormones.Contrary to this statement, the secretion of growth hormones increases during NREM sleep, particularly during the deep stages (stage N3). These hormones play a crucial role in tissue growth and muscle repair.

Choice C reason : Decrease in body temperature.During NREM sleep, there is a decrease in body temperature as part of the body's thermoregulation process. This helps to conserve energy and is a characteristic physiological change during this phase of sleep.

Choice D reason : Constriction of peripheral blood vessels.Peripheral blood vessels do not typically constrict during NREM sleep. Instead, there is generally a decrease in sympathetic nervous system activity, which can lead to the dilation of blood vessels and a decrease in blood pressure.

Choice A reason : Denial is the first stage of the Kübler-Ross model of grief. In this stage, individuals believe the diagnosis is somehow mistaken, and cling to a false, preferable reality. It is a defense mechanism that buffers the immediate shock of the loss, numbing us to our emotions.

Choice B reason : Anger is the second stage of grief. As the masking effects of denial begin to wear off, reality and its pain re-emerge. The intense emotion is deflected from our vulnerable core, redirected and expressed instead as anger. The anger may be aimed at inanimate objects, complete strangers, friends, or family.

Choice C reason : Bargaining is the third stage. It involves the hope that the individual can avoid a cause of grief. Usually, the negotiation for an extended life is made with a higher power in exchange for a reformed lifestyle.

Choice D reason : Acceptance is the final stage of grief. In this stage, individuals embrace mortality or the inevitable future, or that of a loved one, or other tragic event. People dying may precede the survivors in this state, which typically comes with a calm, retrospective view for the individual, and a stable condition of emotions.