Nursing Acceleration Challenge Exam (NACE) PN-RN Practice Test 2025 – All-in-One Resource to Excel in Your Exam!

The three stages of the general adaptation syndrome (GAS) in response to stress are alarm, resistance, and exhaustion. This framework was developed by Hans Selye to describe the physiological processes that occur in response to stressors.

In the alarm stage, the body perceives a stressor and a fight-or-flight response is initiated. This involves the release of stress hormones, such as adrenaline and cortisol, which prepare the body to deal with the perceived threat.

During the resistance stage, the body attempts to adapt to the ongoing stressor. Physiological responses remain elevated as the body tries to regain homeostasis while still managing the stress. If the stressor continues, this stage can lead to physical strain, but the body can typically function at a high level unless the stress becomes chronic.

If the stressor persists beyond the resistance stage, the exhaustion stage occurs. In this stage, the body's resources become depleted, leading to potential burnout, decreased function, and an increased risk of stress-related illnesses.

This accurate understanding of the stages of GAS is crucial for nursing and healthcare, as it informs practices in managing stress and improving patient care. The other options fail to encapsulate the correct sequence and physiological responses associated with stress according to Selye's model.