A client who has experienced massive soft tissue trauma is handling bo

A client who has experienced massive soft tissue trauma is handling both the physical and emo-tional stressors via the generalized adaptation syndrome (GAS). The major benefit of this defense mechanism is through the:

1. Identification of foreign antigens on invading bacteria
2. Production of endorphins that decrease awareness of pain
3. Increased epinephrine, resulting in improved cardiac output
4. Increased norepinephrine directed towards sustaining blood pressure

ANSWER

ANS: 2
Endorphins, hormones that act on the mind like morphine and opiates, produce a sense of well-being and reduce pain. It is the body’s immune system that recognizes antigens on the sur-face of the bacteria cells and thus identifies bacteria as invaders. During the alarm reaction stage of the GAS process, rising epinephrine and norepinephrine levels result in increased heart rate and blood flow.