A nurse is teaching a class about physical manifestations associated with the fight-or-flight response to stress. Which of the following manifestations should the nurse include?

Choice A reason: The fight-or-flight response, driven by sympathetic activation, releases epinephrine, stimulating alpha-1 adrenergic receptors in the iris dilator muscle, causing pupil dilation (mydriasis). This enhances visual acuity, improving environmental awareness during stress, allowing better detection of threats or escape routes in acute stress scenarios. Choice B reason: Hypoglycemia is not a fight-or-flight manifestation. Stress hormones (epinephrine, cortisol) trigger glycogenolysis and gluconeogenesis, increasing blood glucose to provide energy for muscles and the brain. This hyperglycemic response supports immediate physical action, making low blood sugar inconsistent with acute stress physiology. Choice C reason: Bronchial airway constriction is not typical in fight-or-flight, which causes bronchodilation via beta-2 adrenergic receptors stimulated by epinephrine. This increases airflow, enhancing oxygen delivery to muscles for physical exertion. Constriction occurs in conditions like asthma, not as a stress response outcome. Choice D reason: Decreased blood pressure is not a fight-or-flight response. Sympathetic activation increases heart rate and vasoconstriction via norepinephrine, elevating blood pressure to enhance perfusion to muscles and vital organs. Hypotension would impair this adaptive response, reducing efficacy during acute stress situations.