A nurse in a mental health unit asks a client who has schizophrenia, "How are you?" Which of the following responses should the nurse identify as the speech alteration of echolalia?

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 nurse should report the possible abuse to adult protective services if an older adult client states that their child took all their money. This is an important nursing intervention to ensure the safety and well-being of the client.

a) Instructing the client to report the theft to the police may be appropriate, but it is not the first action the nurse should take. The nurse has a legal and ethical obligation to report suspected abuse to the appropriate authorities.

c) Asking the client if there is another family member they can call for financial help may be appropriate, but it does not address the issue of possible abuse.

d) Restricting visitation for the client's family until discharge is not appropriate and may violate the client's rights.