A cab driver stuck in traffic is suddenly lightheaded, tremulous, and diaphoretic and experiences tachycardia and dyspnea. An extensive workup in an emergency department reveals no pathology. Which medical diagnosis is suspected, and what nursing diagnosis takes priority?

Generalized anxiety disorder and a nursing diagnosis of fear

Panic disorder and a nursing diagnosis of panic anxiety

Pain disorder and a nursing diagnosis of altered role performance

Altered sensory perception and a nursing diagnosis of panic disorder

Answer and Explanation

The Correct Answer is B

A. Generalized anxiety disorder and a nursing diagnosis of fear: Generalized anxiety disorder typically involves chronic, excessive worrying and anxiety that is not limited to specific situations or triggers. The sudden and intense symptoms described in the scenario, such as lightheadedness, tremulousness, diaphoresis, tachycardia, and dyspnea, are more indicative of a panic attack rather than generalized anxiety. The nursing diagnosis of fear may not fully capture the acute and intense nature of panic symptoms.

B. Panic disorder and a nursing diagnosis of panic anxiety: This is the correct answer. Panic disorder is characterized by recurrent, unexpected panic attacks, which align with the sudden onset of symptoms described in the scenario. The nursing diagnosis of panic anxiety is appropriate as it addresses the acute distress associated with panic attacks.

C. Pain disorder and a nursing diagnosis of altered role performance: There is no indication of pain being the primary issue in this scenario. The symptoms are more indicative of a panic attack rather than a pain disorder. Additionally, altered role performance is not a priority nursing diagnosis when addressing the acute symptoms of a panic attack.

D. Altered sensory perception and a nursing diagnosis of panic disorder: Altered sensory perception is not the primary issue in this scenario, and it does not specifically address the sudden and intense symptoms described. The focus should be on the panic symptoms and the associated distress, leading to the nursing diagnosis of panic anxiety.

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Correct Answer is B

Explanation

A. Allow the client to pace alone until physically tired: While pacing can be a coping mechanism, leaving the client alone may not be the most therapeutic approach. It is important for the nurse to provide support and assess the client's emotional state.

B. Walk with the client at a gradually slower pace: This is the correct answer. Walking with the client at a gradually slower pace allows the nurse to offer support and engage in therapeutic communication. It provides a calming presence and can assist the client in self-regulating their anxiety.

C. Have a staff member escort the client to her room: Escorting the client to her room might be perceived as restrictive or punitive. It is generally more beneficial to engage in supportive interventions and encourage coping strategies.

D. Instruct the client to sit down and stop pacing: Giving direct orders to stop pacing may increase anxiety and may not be an effective approach. It is often better to engage in a supportive manner and explore ways to help the client manage their anxiety.

A. Social isolation RUT inability to relate to others B. Risk for suicide R/T altered thought C. Altered sensory perception RUT increased levels of anxiety D. Risk for violence: directed toward others R/T suspicious thoughts

Correct Answer is D

Explanation

A. Social isolation R/T inability to relate to others

While social isolation may be a concern for individuals with paranoid personality disorder, the immediate safety risk associated with the disorder is more related to the potential for violence. Therefore, addressing the risk of violence takes precedence.

B. Risk for suicide R/T altered thought:

Paranoid personality disorder is not typically associated with a high risk of suicide. Individuals with this disorder are more likely to pose a risk to others due to their suspicious thoughts and mistrust. Suicide risk assessments are crucial but may not be the top priority in this specific case.

C. Altered sensory perception R/T increased levels of anxiety:

Paranoid personality disorder does involve heightened levels of anxiety, but altered sensory perception is not a primary characteristic of the disorder. Addressing anxiety is important, but the potential for violence toward others is a more immediate concern.

D. Risk for violence: directed toward others R/T suspicious thoughts:

This is the most appropriate priority. Individuals with paranoid personality disorder may have intense mistrust and suspicion, leading to the potential for aggressive or violent behavior directed toward others. Prioritizing safety and preventing harm to others is crucial in the care of clients with this disorder.

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A cab driver stuck in traffic is suddenly lightheaded, tremulous, and diaphoretic and experiences tachycardia and dyspnea. An extensive workup in an emergency department reveals no pathology. Which medical diagnosis is suspected, and what nursing diagnosis takes priority?

Nursing Test Bank

Naxlex Comprehensive Predictor Exams

A nurse on a mental health unit is caring for a client who has generalized anxiety disorder. The client received a telephone call that was upsetting and now the client is pacing up and down the corridors of the unit. Which of the following actions should the nurse take?

Correct Answer is B

Explanation

Which nursing diagnosis should be prioritized when providing care to a client diagnosed with paranoid personality disorder?

Correct Answer is D

Explanation

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