(Select all that apply): A nurse is conducting an assessment of a client with acute stress disorder (ASD). Which physical signs might the nurse find in the client?

Providing the client with information about local support groups.

Choice A rationale:

Encouraging relaxation techniques targets symptom management but doesn't directly address avoidance symptoms.

Choice C rationale:

Cognitive-behavioral techniques are helpful for various PTSD symptoms, but they primarily focus on modifying thought patterns and behaviors.

Choice D rationale:

Medications can alleviate symptoms like anxiety but don't specifically tackle avoidance symptoms. In contrast, Choice B is the most suitable intervention for addressing avoidance symptoms. Individuals with PTSD often avoid situations, places, or people that trigger memories of the trauma. Connecting them with local support groups can provide a safe environment to discuss their experiences, gradually reducing avoidance behavior. Peer support can offer validation, normalization, and sharing of coping strategies, which can ultimately aid in diminishing avoidance symptoms.

Choice A rationale:

Gastrointestinal problems, such as nausea, vomiting, and diarrhea, can be physical signs of acute stress disorder. The stress response can impact the gastrointestinal system due to the activation of the "fight or flight" response.

Choice B rationale:

Cardiovascular problems, such as increased heart rate and blood pressure, are also common physical signs of acute stress disorder. The body's physiological response to stress can lead to cardiovascular changes.

Choice C rationale:

Chronic pain is not typically considered a primary physical sign of acute stress disorder. While stress can exacerbate existing pain conditions, it is not among the hallmark physical symptoms of this disorder.

Choice D rationale:

Substance use disorder might develop as a maladaptive coping mechanism in response to stress, but it is not a direct physical sign that a nurse would observe upon assessment.

Choice E rationale:

Eating disorders are not typically considered a primary physical sign of acute stress disorder. While stress can affect eating habits, it is not one of the characteristic physical symptoms associated with this disorder.