True or False: Stress can change physiologic parameters in patients, leading to inaccurate diagnostic test results.

Stress can indeed lead to changes in physiological parameters in patients, which may result in inaccurate diagnostic test results. When an animal experiences stress, it can affect various bodily systems, leading to hormonal changes, increased heart rate, altered blood pressure, and variations in parameters such as blood glucose levels and respiratory rates. These changes can make it challenging to interpret diagnostic tests accurately.

For example, elevated cortisol levels due to stress can mimic the presence of an illness, while dehydration due to stress-induced panting might skew electrolyte levels. Therefore, when evaluating diagnostic results, it is essential to consider the potential impact of stress on the patient’s physiological state. This recognition forms a crucial part of the veterinary approach, particularly within a Fear Free framework, where minimizing stress is paramount for achieving accurate assessments and promoting animal well-being.

Other choices may suggest varying conditions under which stress affects test results, but the assertion that stress influences physiologic parameters is broadly applicable across many species and situations in clinical practice. Hence, the statement is conclusively true.