ANXIETY

When describing the results of the fight or flight response, the nursing students require further teaching when making which statement? A. Pupils constrict when a patient is anxious. B. The heart races when a patient experiences anxiety. C. Peristalsis slows as the patient decides whether to fight back. D. The patient may complain of dry mouth when anxious.

ANS A Arousal of the sympathetic division of the autonomic nervous system leads to the release of adrenalin which causes the heart to speed up and circulate blood faster, the lungs to dilate to increase the oxygen carrying capacity of the blood, the liver to release stored glucose for a quick infusion of energy, the pupils to dilate for improved visual acuity, and the stomach to inhibit peristalsis as a means to conserve energy. Secondary to these organ system changes, there are observable signs of the "Fight or Flight" response that include tachycardia, disambiguation, bladder relaxation, tremors, blushing, xerostomia, delayed digestion, and hyperacusis.

Which of the following statements is true regarding anxiety?(Select all that apply.) A. Anxiety is a response to stress. B. Anxiety is uncommon in women. C. Anxiety can cause elevations in blood pressure and heart rate. D. Many conditions are exacerbated by stress and anxiety. E. Patients with anxiety respond well to relaxation techniques. F. Children are at the highest risk for anxiety.

ANS A, C, D, E Adults and the elderly are at the highest risk for anxiety. Anxiety is more common in women.

The nurse is assessing a patient's anxiety related to stress. Which changes reflect the short-term physiological response to stress? (Select all that apply). A. Cortisol is released, increasing glycogenesis and reducing fluid loss. B. Immune system functioning decreases, and the risk of cancer increases. C. Corticosteroid release increases stamina and impedes digestion. D. Muscular tension, blood pressure, and triglyceride levels increase. E. Epinephrine is released, increasing the heart and respiratory rates. F. Risk of depression, autoimmune disorders, and heart disease increases.

ANS A, C, D, E The correct answers are all short-term physiological responses to stress. Increased risk of immune system dysfunction, cancer, cardiovascular disease, depression, and autoimmune disease are all long-term (chronic) effects of stress.

Which action should the nurse take to monitor the effects of an acute stressor on a hospitalized patient? (Select all that apply) A. Assess for bradycardia. B. Ask about epigastric pain. C. Observe for increased appetite. D. Check for elevated blood glucose levels. E. Monitor for a decrease in respiratory rate.

ANS B, C, D The physiological changes associated with the acute stress response can cause changes in appetite, increased gastric acid secretion, and elevation of blood glucose levels. Stress causes an increase in respiratory and heart rates.

The nurse is trying a nonpharmacological intervention for a patient with anxiety. Which of the following would most likely benefit this patient? A. Increasing caffeine intake B. Decreasing physical activity C. Limiting noise or music in the room D. Performing abdominal breathing exercises

ANS D Performing abdominal breathing exercises is a nonpharmacological intervention that can help decrease anxiety. Caffeine should be decreased. Physical activity is encouraged to relieve anxiety. Music can help reduce anxiety.