Foundations exam 3 - stress and coping

What is stress

is the psychological, emotional, or physical response & adaptation to real or perceived challenges and changes

• is a condition in which the body responds to changes affecting its normal balance

• We all experience stress as a normal part of daily life

• Stress can be positive or negative

When does a stress reaction occur

when perceived demands (stressors) excess the individual’s existing resources to meet those demands

What is a physical stressor

injury or illness
 Ex. Trauma, illness, pain, exposure to extreme temperatures

What is Psychological (emotional) stress

more common
 Event, situation, interaction, condition that an individual interprets as negative
or threatening
 Ex. Academic pressures, financial difficulties, change in marital status, being a
victim of a natural catastrophe

Types of Stress: Acute

Most common; brief, positive or negative,
 Causes an immediate reaction & biological response to a perceived stressor & triggers the fight-or-flight response
 Ex.: MVA, loss of a loved one, victim of a crime
 Manifestations: irritability, chest tightness, headache, GI issues, sweaty palms, SOB
 Can lead to PTSD

Chronic Stress

 Occurs when stress levels are heightened, constant, and prolonged
 Often believe they have no control over their situation
 Continuous activation of the nervous system
 Can cause/exacerbate serious health problems: anxiety, depression, CVD, cancer and suicide
 Can stem from poverty, racism, disease, illness, living in a dysfunctional family, abuse

Acute stress disorder

results from an overwhelming event that causes an intense dysfunctional reaction → should only last 1 month

PTSD

prolonged stress following a traumatic event; manifestations include flashbacks, nightmares, sweating, increased HR, and exaggerated startled responses→ can be chronic

IBS

chronic GI condition manifested by abdominal discomfort, cramping, bloating, diarrhea, constipation; not considered a disease; can significantly impact quality of life

What do stress disorders stem from

Occur as a result of prolonged levels of stress & anxiety

Assessment

 Objective and subjective patient information obtained
 Private, quiet, uninterrupted setting free from distractions
 Mental status exam, personal and family hx
 Substance abuse history?
 Coping strategies, health beliefs and practices
 Vital signs, appearance, behavior

Planning

 Establish measurable short- and long-term goals
 Take into account the patient’s level of knowledge, support system, access to care, personal beliefs, and health habits
 Develop a trusting relationship though therapeutic communication
 Help the patient determine which situations or events tend to contribute to their stress and anxiety
 Discuss and encourage coping mechanisms

Coping

Strategies that an individual adopts to deal with a stressor

Health Promotion

the art and science of helping individuals change their lifestyle to achieve optimal health
 Focuses on interventions that support a healthy lifestyle
 Nurses educate patients & families about the benefits of health-promoting behaviors
 These are interventions that reduce stress and increase resistance to stress

Coping & Health Promotion Strategies

 Healthy diet and nutrition
 Exercise
 Time management
 Building personal resilience
 Rest and relaxation
 Journaling
 CAM

Stress in Nursing

 Stress emerges in several aspects of a nurse's work and personal life due to time restraints, work environments, long work hours, and performance expectations.
 Nurse burnout and prolonged stress can negatively impact nurses’ well-being and patient care outcomes.
 Must take good care of ourselves to effectively take care of others
 Identify nurse mentors and friends
 Have a plan to manage stress in a healthy way
 Take mindfulness moments when needed
 Be a positive light for your work environment, support positive change/growth, use your
voice!
 Change the reaction
 Change the situation