Question

When planning this patient's care, what do you know about the negative effects of the stress associated with pain?

1) Stress is less pronounced in older adults because they generally have more sophisticated coping skills than younger adults.
2) It is particularly harmful in the elderly who have been injured or who are ill.
3) It affects only those patients who are already debilitated prior to experiencing pain.
4) It has no inherent negative effects; it just alerts the person/health care team of an underlying disease process.

Answer 1

Stress associated with pain can have negative effects on both physical and mental health, contributing to the development of psychological disorders and various physical illnesses. Elderly individuals who are injured or ill are particularly vulnerable to the harmful effects of stress. It is important to consider these negative effects when planning a patient's care.

Step-by-step explanation:

When planning a patient's care, it is important to consider the negative effects of the stress associated with pain. Stress can have profound negative consequences on both physical and mental health. It can contribute to the development of psychological disorders such as post-traumatic stress disorder and major depressive disorder. Chronic stress has been linked to the development and progression of various physical illnesses and diseases, including heart disease and immune system suppression. It is particularly harmful in elderly individuals who are injured or ill, as well as those who are already debilitated prior to experiencing pain.