This course has been approved for 4 hours by the Commission on Case Manager Certification for 2006, 2007, 2008, 2009, 1/15/10 through 12/31/10, 2011, 2012, and 2013.
The purpose of this course is to review the effects of stress and emotions on the immune system. Specific issues that pertain to the nursing profession will be addressed along with evidence-supported intervention strategies. After studying the information presented here, you will be able to:
- Describe the different forms of stress and how they affect the body.
- Describe the brain regions involved in mediating emotions and the behaviors associated with stress.
- Identify the neurotransmitters and hormones that are activated during times of duress.
- Discuss the normal function of the immune system and the ways that stress affects it.
- Describe the manner by which stress-induced changes in the brain can exacerbate immune system diseases.
