A nurse is caring for a patient who is scheduled for a surgical procedure. The nurse is reviewing the patient’s electronic medical record.
Which of the following findings places the patient at risk for a surgical complication? Select all that apply.

Choice A rationale
The first physiological response that occurs during the General Adaptation Syndrome (GAS) is
the alarm reaction stage. This stage is the body’s initial response to stress, where the sympathetic nervous system is activated by the sudden release of hormones.
Choice B rationale
The body remaining alert while blood pressure and heart rate return to pre-stress levels is part of the resistance stage of GAS, not the first physiological response.
Choice C rationale
Prolonged exposure to stress resulting in illness is associated with the exhaustion stage of GAS, which is the final stage, not the first physiological response.
Choice D rationale
An increase in hormones causing an increase in blood pressure and heart rate is part of the alarm reaction stage, but it is not the first physiological response. The first response is the perception of a stressor that stimulates the central nervous system.

Choice A rationale
Reporting the APs to the charge nurse may seem like an appropriate action, but it does not directly address the conflict. It’s important for the nurse to take an active role in conflict resolution, rather than passing the responsibility to someone else.
Choice B rationale
Allowing the APs to resolve their issues might be a good idea in some situations, but it’s not the best choice here. As a nurse, it’s part of your role to ensure that conflicts are resolved in a way that promotes a positive and productive work environment. By simply allowing the APs to resolve their issues, you’re not taking an active role in conflict resolution.
Choice C rationale
Confronting the APs to discuss their argument is the best choice. This action demonstrates conflict resolution because the nurse is taking an active role in addressing the issue. By discussing the argument with the APs, the nurse can help them understand each other’s perspectives and find a solution that works for everyone.
Choice D rationale
Telling the APs they are acting immaturely is not an effective way to resolve conflict. This approach is likely to escalate the conflict rather than resolve it. It’s important to approach conflicts with a goal of understanding and resolution, rather than placing blame or making judgments.