A client in the psychiatric unit is experiencing severe anxiety—they are trembling, pacing, and saying, "I can’t think straight. I feel like something terrible is going to happen." Which of the following is the most therapeutic response by the nurse?
"You need to stop thinking this way. Nothing bad is going to happen."
"Let’s sit together here quietly. I’ll stay with you until you feel more in control."
"Try to calm down. You're safe here, so there’s nothing to worry about."
"Why are you so anxious? Can you tell me what triggered this feeling?"
The Correct Answer is B
Choice A reason: Telling the patient to stop thinking a certain way invalidates their feelings and is not therapeutic.
Choice B reason: Offering presence and calm support provides safety and helps reduce anxiety. It is the most therapeutic intervention for severe anxiety.
Choice C reason: Telling the patient not to worry may feel dismissive, and in severe anxiety the patient may not be able to process reassurance.
Choice D reason: Asking "why" is not effective when the patient is overwhelmed by severe anxiety, as they cannot engage in rational discussion at that moment.
Nursing Test Bank
Naxlex Comprehensive Predictor Exams
Related Questions
Correct Answer is B
Explanation
Choice A reason: Calorie restriction during pregnancy is not a recommended preventive measure and may actually harm fetal development by causing malnutrition.
Choice B reason: Maternal viral infections during pregnancy, such as influenza, have been associated with an increased risk of schizophrenia in offspring. Preventing infections through vaccination, hygiene, and avoiding exposure is a protective measure.
Choice C reason: Iron deficiency should be prevented, not encouraged, since adequate maternal nutrition supports healthy fetal brain development. Limiting iron intake would not reduce schizophrenia risk and could increase complications.
Choice D reason: While teenage pregnancy carries social and medical risks, it is not directly linked to increasing schizophrenia risk in offspring compared to maternal infections during pregnancy.
Correct Answer is B
Explanation
Choice A reason: Redirecting the sibling’s concern to the patient minimizes and dismisses the sibling’s anxiety. This is not therapeutic.
Choice B reason: Schizophrenia has a genetic component, especially in identical twins, but environment and other factors also play roles. This response provides accurate information while reducing unnecessary fear.
Choice C reason: Offering referral may be helpful later, but it does not immediately address the sibling’s expressed concern or provide reassurance.
Choice D reason: Saying there is a 50-50 chance is inaccurate and unnecessarily alarming. The risk is higher in identical twins but not absolute.
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