A nursing student asks how excessive noise and sensory overload could cause feelings of panic in hospitalized children. Which response by the registered nurse is the most appropriate?

Question

A.
"Children are frightened by all the activity in the intensive care unit."
B.
"Excessive noise irritates the inner ear, which leads to behavior changes."
C.
"It's just the body's natural way of dealing with unfamiliar stimuli."
D.
"Stimulation of the adrenal glands leads to secretion of stress hormones."

Answer 1

ANS: D
Sensory overload and excessive noise stimulate the adrenal glands, which secrete the stress hormones epinephrine and norepinephrine, leading to activation of the fight-or-flight response. This response can lead to feelings of panic. Children may well be frightened by all the activity in the unit, but this is not the best explanation. Excessive noise may well irritate the child's ears, but this does not lead to behavior problems. Stating that this is just the body's natural way of dealing with stress does not provide any specific information.