A nurse in an acute mental health facility observes a client having a panic atack. Which of the following interventions should the nurse implement first?
Discuss the client's feelings prior to the panic atack.
Encourage the use of positive self-talk strategies
Instruct the client to use abdominal breathing
Administer an anti-anxiety medication
The Correct Answer is C
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.
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Naxlex Comprehensive Predictor Exams
Related Questions
Correct Answer is D
Explanation
d. Increased joint stiffness due to loss of elasticity in joint cartilage.
Explanation:
The correct answer is d. Increased joint stiffness due to loss of elasticity in joint cartilage.
When teaching an older adult client about age-related changes, it is important for the nurse to provide accurate and relevant information. Joint stiffness is a commonly experienced age-related change that occurs due to the natural loss of elasticity in joint cartilage. As people age, their joints may become stiffer and less flexible, making movements and activities more challenging.
Option a is not the correct answer. Increased nail growth due to the buildup of calcium deposits is not an expected age-related change. Nail growth is primarily determined by factors such as genetics, overall health, and nutritional status, rather than calcium deposits.
Option b is not the correct answer. Increased perspiration due to overproduction by the sweat glands is not an expected age-related change. In fact, older adults may experience a decrease in the production of sweat, which can make them more susceptible to heat-related illnesses and dehydration.
Option c is not the correct answer. Increased cardiac output due to weakened heart walls is not an expected age-related change. With aging, the heart muscles may become stiffer and less efficient, leading to a decrease in cardiac output rather than an increase.
By focusing on the expected age-related change of increased joint stiffness due to loss of elasticity in joint cartilage, the nurse can provide accurate information and help the older adult client understand and manage this common aspect of the aging process.

Correct Answer is A
Explanation
The nurse should include the instruction to "verify the identity of anyone who wants to remove your baby from the room" in the teaching about security procedures. It is important for parents to be vigilant and ensure that only authorized personnel have access to their baby.
Option b is incorrect because it may not be safe for the parent to leave their baby unattended in their room while they walk in the hallway.
Option c is incorrect because newborns typically have two identification bands, one on their arm and one on their leg.
Option d is incorrect because parents should not leave the unit with their baby without proper authorization and discharge procedures.
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