A middle aged client under stress shows which sign most consistent with a stress response?

A middle aged client under stress shows which sign most consistent with a stress response?

• A. Blood pressure 178/96 mm Hg
• B. Palms sweaty
• C. Pupils constricted and reactive to light
• D. Mucous membranes are dry

Answer: (A)

When stress hits, the body activates the sympathetic nervous system, releasing adrenaline that increases heart rate, contractility, and vasoconstriction. This combination raises blood pressure as a direct sign of the stress response. A markedly elevated blood pressure like 178/96 mm Hg reflects this systemic arousal most clearly. Palms sweating happens with anxiety but is less specific and can vary between people. Pupils constricted would oppose the typical stress response; under acute stress, pupils usually dilate to take in more information. Dry mucous membranes aren’t a direct or reliable marker of stress.

When stress hits, the body activates the sympathetic nervous system, releasing adrenaline that increases heart rate, contractility, and vasoconstriction. This combination raises blood pressure as a direct sign of the stress response. A markedly elevated blood pressure like 178/96 mm Hg reflects this systemic arousal most clearly.

Palms sweating happens with anxiety but is less specific and can vary between people. Pupils constricted would oppose the typical stress response; under acute stress, pupils usually dilate to take in more information. Dry mucous membranes aren’t a direct or reliable marker of stress.