General Adaptation Syndrome and Coping Strategies

General Adaptation Syndrome (GAS)

• Definition: Physiological changes in response to stress, occurring in stages.

  • Stages:

  • Alarm Stage (Fight or Flight)

  • Resistance Stage

  • Exhaustion Stage

Alarm Stage

• Phases:

  • Shock Phase: Immediate response to stressor, activating the endocrine and sympathetic nervous system.

    • Results in heightened levels of epinephrine (adrenaline).

    • Occurs within minutes to 24 hours depending on the stressor.

    • Example: Sudden car brakes cause immediate body response to avoid an accident.

  • Counter-shock Phase: Body begins to recover from the initial shock, responses may vary based on the severity of the stressor.

Physiological Changes in Alarm Stage

• Increased Blood Volume and Pressure: May lead to elevated cardiac output.

• Respiratory Changes: Bronchioles dilate leading to deeper breathing and tachypnea.

• Metabolic Changes: Increased metabolism, altered oxygen levels.

• Renal Changes: Decreased urine output; increased sodium and water retention.

• Gastrointestinal Changes: Reduced digestive enzyme secretion; potential increased irritation (e.g., irritable bowel syndrome).

• Musculoskeletal Changes: Initial increased blood flow followed by physiological strain from stressors.

Resistance Stage

• Purpose: Body attempts to cope and regain balance (homeostasis).

  • Mechanisms of coping (physiological and psychological) are activated.

  • If stressor is manageable, body stabilizes.

  • Failure to cope can lead to deterioration and entry into the exhaustion stage.

Exhaustion Stage

• Characterized by:

  • Physiological depletion leading to hypotension and tachycardia.

  • Recovery phase if adaptation is successful, marked by increased energy and coping strategies.

  • If adaptation fails, increased risk of injury, illness, or death occurs.

Nursing Process in Stress Management

• Step 1: Assessment

  • Identify patient's stressors and coping capabilities.

  • Determine the realistic vs. exaggerated perceptions of stressor.

  • Classify areas to assess: physiological responses, support systems, risk factors.

• Step 2: Planning

  • Set client-specific goals aiming at reducing stress or adapting to it.

  • Include measurable outcomes where applicable.

• Step 3: Implementation

  • Adaptive coping strategies include:

  • Regular exercise for emotional and physical well-being.

  • Sleep techniques for restoration.

  • Stress management through time management, relaxation techniques, and effective delegation.

Maladaptive vs. Adaptive Coping Strategies

• Maladaptive: Drug use, excessive caffeine, avoiding social interactions, leading to depression.

• Adaptive: Positive self-talk, support groups, establishing healthy boundaries, engaging in leisure activities.

Importance of Support Systems

• Vital for encouraging patients to adhere to recovery plans.

  • Patients often benefit more from support from those who understand their experiences.

• Recommendations include participation in support groups with shared experiences.

Key Nursing Considerations

• Use empathy instead of sympathy when caring for patients undergoing stress.

• Encourage family engagement but assess if client desires support.

• Maintain holistic assessments to ensure no aspect of the client's experience is overlooked.

Summary of Techniques to Manage Stress

• Coping Mechanisms: Relaxation techniques (meditation, biofeedback), cognitive restructuring (positive affirmations), engaging in physical activity.

• Time Management: Prioritize tasks, use organizational tools to reduce overwhelm.

• Crisis Intervention: Assess situation, ensure safety, diffuse anxiety to restore stability.

Conclusion

• Assess, identify strategies, and implement care focusing on patient readiness for adaptation to stress.

• Continual evaluation and flexibility in coping strategies are essential to effectively assist patients in managing stress-related challenges.

Note: These notes summarize the transcript content comprehensively, encapsulating key concepts and nursing strategies concerning stress and its management in healthcare contexts. Adjust notes as necessary for specific exam preparation needs or focus areas.