What impact does stress have on vital signs?

• A. It typically lowers heart rate
• B. It can increase heart rate, blood pressure, and respiratory rate
• C. It leads to a stable blood pressure
• D. It has no significant effect

Answer: (B)

Stress has a well-documented impact on vital signs, primarily through the activation of the body's fight-or-flight response. When an individual experiences stress, the sympathetic nervous system is stimulated, leading to physiological changes. This response is mediated by the release of stress hormones such as adrenaline (epinephrine) and cortisol.

As a result of this activation, heart rate typically increases, allowing more blood to be pumped to muscles and vital organs. Blood pressure also rises due to increased peripheral resistance and cardiac output. Concurrently, the respiratory rate can increase in response to the body's heightened demand for oxygen, facilitating enhanced gas exchange to meet the metabolic needs associated with stress.

These changes are crucial for preparing the body to respond to perceived threats or challenges, thus highlighting the relationship between stress and vital signs such as heart rate, blood pressure, and respiratory rate. Understanding this connection is vital for assessing a patient's overall cardiovascular and respiratory health, especially in situations where stress levels may be elevated.