A client with panic disorder is experiencing anticipatory anxiety. Which of the following statements by the client indicates an understanding of anticipatory anxiety?

Choice A rationale:

Collecting vital signs, weight, height, and BMI is important for a general health assessment, but these measurements are not the primary focus when assessing a client with panic disorder.

Choice B rationale:

Gathering information about the client's support system, self-esteem, and coping strategies is relevant for understanding the client's overall well-being, but it may not provide as much insight into the specific factors contributing to panic disorder.

Choice C rationale:

This choice is correct because it addresses essential aspects of the assessment for a client with panic disorder. Understanding the client's medical history can reveal any underlying health conditions that might contribute to anxiety. Knowledge of medication use is crucial to identify potential interactions or side effects that could exacerbate anxiety. Family history provides insight into genetic predispositions and potential risk factors.

Choice D rationale:

Collecting laboratory tests and diagnostic tools might be necessary for ruling out other medical conditions that could mimic anxiety symptoms, but these should be secondary to gathering information about medical history, medication use, and family history when assessing a client with panic disorder.

Choice A rationale:

This statement accurately describes panic disorder. It is an anxiety disorder characterized by recurrent and unexpected panic attacks—sudden episodes of intense fear or discomfort accompanied by physical and cognitive symptoms. These attacks can lead to significant distress and avoidance behaviors.

Choice B rationale:

Panic disorder is not a type of depression; it is a separate anxiety disorder. While there can be co-occurrence of depression and anxiety disorders, they have distinct diagnostic criteria and features.

Choice C rationale:

Panic disorder is not related to substance abuse, nor is it influenced by biological factors that contribute to substance use disorders. It is primarily a psychological condition related to anxiety.

Choice D rationale:

The PDSS (Panic Disorder Severity Scale) is a tool used to assess the severity of panic disorder symptoms, not to diagnose the disorder itself. A diagnosis of panic disorder is based on clinical criteria outlined in the Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders (DSM-5)