Author Question: Which action should the nurse take to monitor the effects of an acute stressor on a hospitalized ... (Read 61 times)

abc · **on:** Jul 22, 2018

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.

Question 2

A patient tells the nurse My doctor thinks my problems with stress relate to the negative way I think about things, and he wants me to learn a new way of thinking. Which response would be in keeping with the doctor's recommendations?

a. Teaching the patient to recognize, reconsider, and reframe irrational thoughts
b. Encouraging the patient to imagine being in calming circumstances
c. Teaching the patient to use instruments that give feedback about bodily functions
d. Provide the patient with a blank journal and guidance about journaling

Dominic · **Reply #1 on:** Jul 22, 2018

Answer to Question 1

ANS: B, C, D
The physiologic 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 the respiratory and heart rates.

Answer to Question 2

ANS: A
Cognitive reframing focuses on recognizing and correcting maladaptive patterns of thinking that create stress or interfere with coping. Cognitive reframing involves recognizing the habit of thinking about a situation or issue in a fixed, irrational, and unquestioning manner. Helping the patient to recognize and reframe (reword) such thoughts so that they are realistic and accurate promotes coping and reduces stress. Thinking about being in calming circumstances is a form of guided imagery. Instruments that give feedback about bodily functions are used in biofeedback. Journaling is effective for helping to increase self-awareness. However, none of these last three interventions is likely to alter the patient's manner of thinking.