Certified Medical-Surgical Registered Nurse Practice Exam

Which physiological response is commonly associated with surgery-related stress?

1. Bronchial constriction

2. Decreased cortisol levels

3. Peripheral vasodilation

4. Sodium and water retention

The correct answer is: Sodium and water retention

Surgery-related stress activates the body's stress response system, which leads to a variety of physiological changes. One key response is the retention of sodium and water, triggered by the release of stress hormones such as cortisol and aldosterone. This mechanism is part of the body's strategy to maintain blood volume and blood pressure during stressful situations, including surgery. The retention of sodium and water helps ensure adequate perfusion to vital organs, which is crucial during surgery when the body may experience blood loss or other stressors. This response is particularly important as it can directly influence fluid balance and hemodynamic stability postoperatively. While other physiological responses may occur, such as bronchial constriction or changes in cortisol levels, the prominent retention of sodium and water is a hallmark response associated with the stress of surgery.