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: Sedative medications may be used in severe cases, but immediate nursing care focuses on nonpharmacologic interventions to ensure safety and reduce stimulation. Medication is not the first-line action.
Choice B reason: Providing a calm environment with reduced external stimuli while encouraging expression of feelings helps the client regain control and decreases anxiety during a panic episode. This is the most appropriate nursing intervention.
Choice C reason: Detailed problem-solving requires higher-level cognitive functioning, which is impaired during a panic attack. Attempting this intervention may increase the client’s distress.
Choice D reason: Allowing expression without guidance offers no therapeutic support and may leave the client overwhelmed by panic symptoms, prolonging the episode.
Correct Answer is B
Explanation
Choice A reason: Processing auditory information and comprehension is primarily the function of the temporal lobe, not the parietal lobe.
Choice B reason: The parietal lobe is responsible for integrating sensory input such as touch, pain, pressure, and temperature, allowing the brain to form a coherent understanding of the body’s physical state.
Choice C reason: Voluntary muscle movement coordination and balance are functions of the cerebellum and motor cortex, not the parietal lobe.
Choice D reason: Emotions and memory formation are primarily regulated by the limbic system, especially the amygdala and hippocampus, not the parietal lobe.
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