North Carolina EMT State Practice Exam

What is the first phase of the General Adaptation Syndrome in response to stress?

1. Recovery or exhaustion

2. Reaction and resistance

3. Alarm response

4. Adaptation phase

The correct answer is: Alarm response

The correct answer is the alarm response, which is the first phase of the General Adaptation Syndrome (GAS). This phase is crucial as it represents the body's immediate reaction to a stressor. When an individual encounters a stressful event, the body activates the sympathetic nervous system, leading to the release of stress hormones such as adrenaline and cortisol. This hormonal surge prepares the body for a fight-or-flight response, resulting in increased heart rate, heightened alertness, and other physiological changes aimed at enabling the individual to cope with the threat. Understanding this phase is essential in emergency medical situations, as it influences not only the physiological response of an individual facing stress but also the responder's approach to managing the situation. Recognizing signs of this initial stress response can help EMTs provide effective care and support to patients who may be experiencing acute stress due to trauma or other emergencies.