Question

The nurse assesses that the patient is having a sympathetic response when noting what manifestations?

A) Decrease in sweating, decrease in respirations, and pupil constriction
B) Decrease in heart rate and perfusion, and an increase in inflammatory reactions
C) Increase in blood pressure, bronchodilation, and decreased bowel sounds
D) Increased motility and secretions in the GI tract, and constriction of bronchi and pupils

Answer 1

A patient experiencing a sympathetic response typically showcases increased blood pressure, bronchodilation, and decreased bowel sounds, indicative of the body's 'fight or flight' reaction.

Step-by-step explanation:

The nurse would assess that the patient is having a sympathetic response when noting manifestations such as an increase in blood pressure, bronchodilation, and decreased bowel sounds. These responses are indicative of the 'fight or flight' reaction and are directly opposite the rest and digest reactions of the parasympathetic nervous system. During a sympathetic response, you might also observe dilated pupils, inhibited salivation, increased heart rate, inhibited digestion, and reduced contraction of the bladder. Additionally, influences like increased epinephrine and norepinephrine release by the adrenal glands, and presence of stimulants can augment the sympathetic response.