A patient presents in the Emergency Department immediately following a shooting incident in a school where she has been teaching. There is no evidence of physical injury, but she appears very hyperactive and talkative. Which of these symptoms manifested by the patient are common initial biological responses to stress? Select all that apply.

Correct Answer: D

Rationale: When an individual experiences a stressful situation such as a shooting incident, the body initiates a stress response also known as the 'fight or flight' response. This response is mediated by the sympathetic nervous system and leads to physiological changes aimed at preparing the body to either confront the threat or flee from it. Increased heart rate and increased respirations are common initial biological responses to stress as they help to deliver more oxygen to muscles and vital organs, enhancing physical performance in response to the perceived threat. These physiological changes are adaptive in the short term, helping the individual deal with the immediate stressor.

Correct Answer: B

Rationale: Learning is enhanced when anxiety is mild. Moderate to severe anxiety can hinder the learning process by overwhelming the patient, making it difficult for them to focus and retain information. Mild anxiety, on the other hand, can actually improve learning by increasing alertness and focus without causing distress or interference with cognitive functions. Therefore, it is essential for the nurse to recognize the level of anxiety in the patient and aim to keep it at a mild level to facilitate effective medication instruction.

Correct Answer: C

Rationale: The most accurate statement about the concept of neuroses is that an individual experiencing neurosis is aware of psychological causes of his or her behavior. Neuroses are considered milder forms of mental illness where individuals are aware of their distress and the psychological factors contributing to their symptoms. Unlike individuals with psychosis, who may have a loss of contact with reality, individuals with neuroses have insight into their condition and are able to recognize the causes of their distress. This awareness can often be a key factor in seeking and benefiting from treatment.

Correct Answer: B

Rationale: According to Maslow's hierarchy of needs, the sense of belonging and love comes after physiological needs, safety, and esteem needs. When a client expresses feelings of isolation, such as saying that no one cares, it indicates a lack of social belonging and support. This situation would require priority intervention by a nurse to address the client's emotional well-being and provide the necessary support and reassurance. Ignoring these feelings could potentially exacerbate the client's emotional distress and impact their overall mental health. Therefore, addressing the client's sense of isolation and providing emotional support should be the priority in this scenario on an inpatient psychiatric unit.

Correct Answer: B

Rationale: Mental health is best defined as successful adaptation to stressors in the internal and external environment. It involves the ability to cope with life's challenges effectively, maintain healthy relationships, and make sound decisions despite facing stress and adversity. Mental health encompasses emotional, psychological, and social well-being and is characterized by resilience, emotional intelligence, self-acceptance, and a sense of purpose. It is not simply the absence of mental illness but a state of overall well-being and optimal functioning. Option B accurately reflects this understanding of mental health.