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?

The correct answer is: d. Formal operational

Choice A: Concrete operational

During the concrete operational stage, which typically occurs between the ages of 7 and 11, children develop logical thinking skills. They begin to understand the concept of conservation, the idea that quantity remains the same despite changes in shape or appearance. However, their thinking is still very concrete and tied to tangible objects and real events. Abstract thinking is not yet developed at this stage.

Choice B: Sensorimotor

The sensorimotor stage spans from birth to about 2 years of age. In this stage, infants learn about the world through their senses and actions. They develop object permanence, the understanding that objects continue to exist even when they cannot be seen, heard, or touched. Abstract thinking does not occur in this stage as infants are focused on immediate sensory experiences and motor activities.

Choice C: Preoperational

The preoperational stage occurs between the ages of 2 and 7. During this stage, children begin to engage in symbolic play and learn to manipulate symbols, but they do not yet understand concrete logic. Their thinking is still egocentric, meaning they have difficulty seeing things from perspectives other than their own. Abstract thinking is not a characteristic of this stage.

Choice D: Formal operational

The formal operational stage begins around age 12 and continues into adulthood. This stage is characterized by the development of abstract thinking and hypothetical reasoning. Individuals in this stage can think about abstract concepts, consider possible outcomes and consequences of actions, and use systematic ways to solve problems. This stage marks the emergence of scientific reasoning and the ability to think about abstract ideas.

Choice A reason : Enlarged tonsils can contribute to obstructive sleep apnea by blocking the airway, but they do not cause central sleep apnea, which is related to the brain's control of breathing.

Choice B reason : Obesity is a risk factor for obstructive sleep apnea due to the physical obstruction of the airway, not central sleep apnea, which involves a failure of the brain's signaling to the muscles that control breathing.

Choice C reason : Opioid overdose can depress the central nervous system, including the brain's ability to signal for breath, leading to central sleep apnea.

Choice D reason : A deviated septum can cause difficulty breathing through the nose and contribute to obstructive sleep apnea, but it does not cause central sleep apnea.