Pathophysiology Practice Exam Related

Review Pathophysiology Practice Exam related questions and content

When a child jumps out of the tub, crying and stating her feet are 'burning,' what pathophysiologic principle is responsible for this response?

  • A. Pain receptors (nociceptors) have been activated in response to a thermal stimulus.
  • B. The child's skin thermal receptors have undergone adaptation.
  • C. The child is exhibiting a psychogenic pain response due to anxiety.
  • D. The child is experiencing a conditioned pain response based on previous experiences.
Correct Answer: A

Rationale: The child's reaction is due to the activation of nociceptors, which are pain receptors that respond to thermal stimuli. This response is an immediate protective mechanism to prevent tissue damage caused by extreme temperatures. Option B is incorrect because adaptation does not explain the child's immediate and intense response. Option C is incorrect as there is a clear physical stimulus present, ruling out a psychogenic response. Option D is incorrect as the child's response is not based on previous experiences but rather on the current thermal stimulus.