A charge nurse is explaining the role of a licensed practical nurse to an assistive personnel (AP). Which of the following responsibilities should the charge nurse include?

c. Instruct the client to use abdominal breathing.

When a client is experiencing a panic atack, the nurse's first priority is to help the client manage their symptoms and provide immediate relief. Instructing the client to use abdominal breathing is the most appropriate initial intervention.

Explanation for the other options:

a. Discuss the client's feelings prior to the panic atack. While discussing the client's feelings can be beneficial in addressing the underlying causes of anxiety, it may not be the most effective immediate intervention during a panic atack. The client's focus during a panic atack is typically on managing the physical symptoms and regaining control.

b. Encourage the use of positive self-talk strategies. Positive self-talk can be helpful in managing anxiety in general, but during a panic atack, the individual may have difficulty engaging in positive self-talk due to the intensity of symptoms. Addressing the immediate physical symptoms is a priority before exploring coping strategies.

d. Administer an anti-anxiety medication. Medication administration may be necessary in some cases, but it is not the first-line intervention for managing a panic atack. Non-pharmacological interventions, such as breathing techniques, should be implemented first. If the panic atack persists or worsens despite these interventions, medication may be considered.

In summary, during a panic atack, the immediate focus should be on helping the client manage their symptoms. Instructing the client to use abdominal breathing can help promote relaxation and reduce the intensity of the panic atack.

The first action the nurse should plan to perform is to check the client's ability to use the call light. This is essential to ensure that the client can easily communicate with the healthcare team if they need assistance or experience a fall risk situation. By confirming the client's ability to use the call light, the nurse can address any potential communication barriers and ensure that the client has a means to request help promptly.

Explanation for the other options:

b) Document the client's risk in the medical record: While documenting the client's risk in the medical record is important, it is not the first action to be taken. Ensuring the client's immediate safety and ability to request assistance is the priority.

c) Request a referral for physical therapy: Referring the client for physical therapy may be a necessary step to address their impaired mobility and reduce fall risk, but it is not the first action to be performed. Assessing their ability to use the call light takes precedence in order to address immediate safety concerns.

d) Place a gait belt in the client's room: Providing a gait belt is a measure to assist with mobility and falls prevention. However, it should not be the first action. Checking the client's ability to use the call light is more critical to ensure their immediate safety and ability to request help.