A nurse is discussing the physiological and psychological effects of stress with a client. Which of the following should the nurse include as a psychological effect?
Explanation & Rationale
A. Muscle tension is a physiological effect of stress. When a person experiences stress, the body activates the sympathetic nervous system, leading to increased muscle contraction, headaches, or jaw clenching. These are physical responses rather than psychological responses. B. Anxiety is a psychological effect of stress. Stress can trigger feelings of worry, nervousness, or fear, which affect mood, cognition, and emotional well-being. Psychological effects are related to mental and emotional responses rather than physical manifestations. C. Insomnia can be considered both a physiological and psychological response, but in the context of stress, it is more commonly classified as a physiological effect because it results from the body’s arousal and inability to relax, affecting sleep-wake cycles.