Latest Update 2025-2026
stress is a process with physical, psychological, behavioral and cognitive components in
response to an individual's _____ of the physical, environmental & psychosocial demands places
on the individual - Answers perception
term for normal, beneficial stress - Answers eustress
term for damaging stress - Answers distress
syndrome referring to the body's response to prolonged stress - Answers general adaptation
syndrome
3 stages of general adaptation syndrome - Answers alarm
resistance
exhaustion
alarm stage of general adaptation syndrome - Answers -person encounters a stressor
-SNS activated (fight or flight)
resistance stage of general adaptation syndrome - Answers -change in perception of stressor
-reserves are replenished (energy, hormones)
-threat is removed
-may have coping resources or support
-adaptation may occur
exhaustion stage of general adaptation syndrome - Answers -energy levels are depleted
-decreased physical and mental health
-death may result
the alarm stage results in an increase in ____ - Answers hormone levels
blood volume
BG
epinephrine/NE
HR
, blood flow
mental alertness
chronic stress is defined as ___ stress due to chemicals produced by the stress response
(cortisol, adrenaline, and other catecholamines) which can have ____ harm - Answers prolonged;
physiological and emotional
as the initial rush of epinephrine subsides, the hypothalamus stimulates the ___;
if stress is prolonged, the hypothalamus stimulates the __ which travels to the pituitary gland
and triggers the release of ____ which travels to the adrenal glands and stimulates the release of
___ - Answers HPA axis;
CRH;
ACTH;
cortisol
What is included in the history data portion of the assessment? - Answers -reason for seeking
treatment
-causes of stress
primary vs secondary appraisal - Answers pt assess if situation is a threat;
coping skills/strategies
term for effort directed toward management of dangerous,
threatening, or challenging situation - Answers coping
common symptoms r/t stress - Answers HA
insomnia
chronic fatigue
GI upset
musculoskeletal pain
skin disorders
loss of interest
tense and irritable