Correct Answer: C

Rationale: Selye developed a theory of adaptation to biologic stress that he named the general adaptation syndrome (GAS), which has three phases: alarm, resistance, and exhaustion. During the alarm phase, the sympathetic fight-or-flight response is activated with release of catecholamines and the onset of the adrenocorticotropic hormone (ACTH) adrenal cortical response. The alarm reaction is defensive and anti-inflammatory but self-limited. Because living in a continuous state of alarm would result in death, people move into the second stage, resistance. During the resistance stage, adaptation to the noxious stressor occurs, and cortisol activity is still increased.

Correct Answer: A

Rationale: Giving patients information also reduces the emotional response so that they can concentrate and solve problems more effectively. Educating the patient does not decrease depression levels or build interpersonal relationships. Educating the patient does not mean sharing of personal details.

Correct Answer: B

Rationale: A simple stress response will temporarily elevate a blood pressure and heart rate. Long-term blood pressure response is controlled by negative feedback systems. For a science teacher, this would be an appropriate level of teaching/learning and would serve to promote health. The nurse would be incorrect in assuming the patients blood pressure is good based on only two blood pressure readings. The stress of a respiratory infection could account for the elevated blood pressure, but assuring the patient that, with treatment, her blood pressure will return to normal may not be true.

Correct Answer: A,B,C

Rationale: These mechanisms work by sensing deviations from a predetermined set point or range of adaptability and triggering a response aimed at offsetting the deviation. Blood pressure, acid-base balance, blood glucose level, body temperature, and fluid and electrolyte balance are examples of functions regulated through such compensatory mechanisms. Coagulation and labor onset are results of positive feedback loops.

Correct Answer: B

Rationale: Mechanisms for adjusting internal conditions promote the normal steady state of the organism and its survival. These mechanisms are compensatory in nature and work to restore balance in the body. Adaptation is a part of the concept of steady state; it is not the concept itself.