A nurse is teaching a class about the stages of the general adaptive syndrome (GAS). The nurse should include that which of the following is the first physiological response that occurs during GAS?
A perceived stressor stimulates the central nervous system.
The body remains alert, while blood pressure and heart rate return to pre-stress levels.
Prolonged exposure to stress can result in illness.
An increase in hormones causes an increase in blood pressure and heart rate.
The Correct Answer is A
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.
Nursing Test Bank
Naxlex Comprehensive Predictor Exams
Related Questions
Correct Answer is B
Explanation
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.
Correct Answer is B
Explanation
Choice A rationale
This statement is incorrect. As people age, the flexibility of the lens of the eye actually decreases, not increases. This can lead to conditions such as presbyopia, which is difficulty focusing on close objects.
Choice B rationale
As people age, their depth perception can decrease. This can make it more difficult to judge distances and can increase the risk of falls.
Choice C rationale
This statement is incorrect. As people age, the tone of the eye muscles can decrease, not increase. This can lead to conditions such as presbyopia.
Choice D rationale
This statement is incorrect. As people age, the natural lens of the eye can actually thicken, not reduce. This can lead to conditions such as cataracts.
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