Question 1

A person with a fear of heights drives across a high bridge. Which structure will stimulate a response from the autonomic nervous system?

Accepted Answer

A)  Thalamus 
B)  Parietal lobe 
C)  Hypothalamus 
D)  Pituitary gland

Question 2

According to the Recent Life Changes Questionnaire, which situation would most necessitate a complete assessment of a person's stress status and coping abilities?

Accepted Answer

A)  A person who has been assigned more responsibility at work 
B)  A parent whose job required relocation to a different city 
C)  A person returning to college after an employer ceased operations 
D)  A man who recently separated from his wife because of marital problems

Question 3

A patient newly diagnosed as HIV-positive seeks the nurse's advice on how to reduce the risk of infections. The patient says, "I used to go to church and I was in my best health then. Maybe I should start going to church again." Which response will the nurse offer?

Accepted Answer

A)  "Religion does not usually affect health, but you were younger and stronger then." 
B)  "Contact with supportive people at church might help, but religion itself is not especially helpful." 
C)  "Studies show that spiritual practices can enhance immune system function and coping abilities." 
D)  "Going to church would expose you to many potential infections. Let's think about some other options."

Exam 12: Understanding Responses to Stress

A person with a fear of heights drives across a high bridge. Which structure will stimulate a response from the autonomic nervous system?

According to the Recent Life Changes Questionnaire, which situation would most necessitate a complete assessment of a person's stress status and coping abilities?

A patient newly diagnosed as HIV-positive seeks the nurse's advice on how to reduce the risk of infections. The patient says, "I used to go to church and I was in my best health then. Maybe I should start going to church again." Which response will the nurse offer?