Ace the 2026 RN Endocrine Exam – Empower Your Nursing Journey!

Cortisol is the hormone produced by the adrenal glands that plays a crucial role in the body’s response to stress. When a person is faced with a stressful situation, the hypothalamus in the brain signals the adrenal glands to release cortisol. This hormone helps mobilize energy by increasing glucose availability, suppressing non-essential functions, and modulating the immune response. By doing so, cortisol prepares the body to handle stress more effectively and maintain homeostasis during challenging times.

Insulin, which is produced by the pancreas, is primarily involved in regulating blood glucose levels, while thyroxine, produced by the thyroid gland, plays a key role in metabolism and energy regulation. Glucagon, also produced by the pancreas, works in tandem with insulin to raise blood glucose levels when they drop too low. Although all these hormones are vital to overall endocrine function, cortisol is specifically linked to the stress response, making it the correct answer in this context.