Psychiatric Mental Health Nursing
11th Edition
Author(s)Karyn Morgan
TEST BANK
Question 1
A nursing student asks why two individuals exposed to the
same stressor may respond differently. Which response by the
psychiatric nurse is most accurate?
A. “Stress responses are determined only by inherited biologic
traits.”
B. “Stress occurs only when environmental events are
,perceived as threatening.”
C. “Stress is influenced by an individual’s perception and coping
abilities.”
D. “People respond identically to stress when exposed to the
same situation.”
Correct Answer: C
Rationale:
Stress adaptation theory emphasizes that stress is a transaction
between the individual and the environment. Personal
perception, appraisal, and coping resources influence
responses to stressors. Option A is incorrect because biologic
traits are only one factor. Option B is incorrect because not all
stressors are consciously perceived as threatening. Option D is
incorrect because stress responses vary among individuals.
Source:
Davis Advantage for Townsend's Psychiatric Mental Health
Nursing, 11th Edition — Chapter 1: The Concept of Stress
Adaptation
Question 2
A client reports experiencing persistent muscle tension,
tachycardia, and insomnia after losing employment. Which
physiologic concept is most closely associated with this
response?
,A. Parasympathetic nervous system activation
B. Homeostatic recovery response
C. Sympathetic nervous system activation
D. Endorphin suppression response
Correct Answer: C
Rationale:
Stress as a biologic response involves activation of the
sympathetic nervous system, producing physiologic
manifestations such as increased heart rate, muscle tension,
and sleep disturbances. Option A would promote relaxation.
Option B occurs after stress reduction. Option D is not the
primary physiologic explanation for these manifestations.
Source:
Davis Advantage for Townsend's Psychiatric Mental Health
Nursing, 11th Edition — Chapter 1: The Concept of Stress
Adaptation
Question 3
A nurse is assessing a client experiencing chronic caregiving
stress. Which assessment finding suggests maladaptive stress
adaptation?
A. Seeking social support from family
B. Using relaxation breathing exercises
C. Increasing alcohol intake to sleep
D. Scheduling regular periods of rest
, Correct Answer: C
Rationale:
Maladaptive coping behaviors interfere with healthy
functioning and may worsen stress outcomes. Increasing
alcohol intake to manage stress is ineffective and potentially
harmful. Options A, B, and D represent adaptive stress-
management strategies that support healthy coping.
Source:
Davis Advantage for Townsend's Psychiatric Mental Health
Nursing, 11th Edition — Chapter 1: The Concept of Stress
Adaptation
Question 4
A client states, “I cannot stop worrying about my upcoming
surgery.” Which therapeutic response by the nurse best
promotes stress adaptation?
A. “You should avoid thinking about the surgery.”
B. “Tell me more about what concerns you most.”
C. “Everything will probably be fine.”
D. “Other people have much worse surgeries.”
Correct Answer: B
Rationale:
Therapeutic communication encourages expression of feelings
and assists with stress appraisal and coping. Asking the client to