Describe the clinical manifestations of the physiological response to stress.

Question

What will be an ideal response?

Answer 1

The stress response has been described as a progression through three phases: the ebb phase, the flow phase, and the recovery or resolution phase. The ebb phase encompasses the immediate period after injury (2–48 hours). This period is characterized by shock resulting in hypovolemia and decreased oxygen availability to tissues. The reduction in blood volume results in decreased cardiac output and urinary output. The goal of medical care during this acute period is to restore blood flow to organs, maintain oxygenation of all tissues, and stop all hemorrhaging. As the patient stabilizes hemodynamically, the flow phase begins. This phase encompasses the classic signs and symptoms of metabolic stress: hypermetabolism, catabolism, and altered immune and hormonal responses. The final adaptation phase or recovery phase indicates a resolution of the stress with a return to anabolism and normal metabolic rate.