A nurse is caring for a patient who reports stress related to homelessness.
The nurse should identify that the patient is experiencing which of the following types of stressors?

Choice A rationale
Experiencing poverty can indeed be a source of chronic stress due to the ongoing hardships and struggles associated with financial instability. However, it is not typically classified as an example of acute stress, which is usually associated with a specific event or situation that causes a sudden and intense reaction.
Choice B rationale
Being a victim of a crime is a prime example of an acute stressor. This is because it is a specific event that can cause immediate emotional and physiological reactions. The individual may experience intense feelings of fear, shock, or distress, and these reactions typically occur immediately after the event.
Choice C rationale
Being part of a dysfunctional family can lead to chronic stress due to ongoing family conflicts, communication problems, or other issues. While specific incidents within the family context (like a heated argument) could potentially trigger acute stress responses, the overall experience of living in a dysfunctional family is more commonly associated with chronic stress.
Choice D rationale
Experiencing racism can lead to both acute and chronic stress. Acute stress might occur in response to a specific incident of racial discrimination, while chronic stress could result from living in a society where racism is pervasive. However, without a specific incident mentioned, it is less likely to be considered an example of acute stress compared to being a victim of a crime.

Choice A rationale
Holding the pain medication until the patient wakes up is not the best choice. Pain can disrupt sleep, and it’s important to keep the patient as comfortable as possible. If the patient is sleeping, it may be because the pain is well-controlled, and delaying the medication could lead to a return of pain.
Choice B rationale
The patient should be given the scheduled pain medication. This is the best choice because it ensures that the patient’s pain is managed effectively. Even if the patient is sleeping, the medication should be given to prevent the pain from returning.
Choice C rationale
Calling the family and asking if the patient would like to be woken up to have their pain medication is not the best choice. The nurse should make this decision based on the patient’s pain level and the medication schedule, not on the family’s preferences.
Choice D rationale
The statement that the patient has become addicted to the medication and is sleeping the last dose off is not accurate. Addiction is a complex condition characterized by compulsive drug use despite harmful consequences. In this case, the patient is receiving the medication for a legitimate medical reason, and there is no indication of addiction.