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 D
Explanation
Choice A reason: Schizotypal disorder is characterized by eccentric behaviors, odd beliefs, and perceptual distortions. While social difficulties are common, the primary feature is not a lack of interest in relationships but unusual thought patterns and behaviors.
Choice B reason: Paranoid personality disorder involves pervasive distrust and suspicion of others. Clients often avoid relationships due to fear of being exploited, not because of a lack of interest in intimacy.
Choice C reason: Antisocial personality disorder is defined by disregard for others’ rights, impulsivity, and rule-breaking behaviors, not by withdrawal from sexual or social relationships.
Choice D reason: Schizoid disorder is marked by detachment from social relationships and a limited range of emotional expression, including little to no interest in sexual activity or partnerships, making this the best match.
Correct Answer is D
Explanation
Choice A reason: Long-term memory and emotional responses are primarily associated with the limbic system, particularly the hippocampus and amygdala, not the hypothalamus.
Choice B reason: Voluntary muscle control and reflexes are coordinated by the motor cortex and spinal cord, not the hypothalamus.
Choice C reason: Processing sensory input and initiating motor responses are functions of the thalamus and cerebral cortex. The hypothalamus is not directly responsible for this role.
Choice D reason: The hypothalamus regulates homeostasis, including body temperature, thirst, fluid balance, circadian rhythms, and hormone release. A tumor compressing this area explains the patient’s symptoms.
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