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.
Nursing Test Bank
Naxlex Comprehensive Predictor Exams
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Correct Answer is C
Explanation
MDMA, commonly known as ecstasy or Molly, is a stimulant drug that affects the central nervous system. It primarily acts on serotonin, dopamine, and norepinephrine neurotransmitters. The use of MDMA can lead to altered perception, increased sensory awareness, and hallucinations. Hallucinations may involve visual, auditory, or tactile sensations that are not based on reality.
The other findings mentioned—hypothermia (abnormally low body temperature), somnolence (excessive sleepiness), and muscle weakness—are not typically associated with MDMA use. Instead, MDMA use may lead to increased body temperature (hyperthermia), increased energy levels, agitation, increased heart rate, and muscle tension.
Correct Answer is B
Explanation
Applying heat to the affected joints can help relieve pain and stiffness ¹. A heating pad or warm compress
can be used to apply heat to the hands.
The other options are not correct because:
a) Sleeping on a soft mattress is not mentioned as a way to manage osteoarthritis symptoms.
b) spirin should be taken with food or milk to reduce stomach irritation .
c) Exercising inflamed joints excessively can worsen symptoms. It is important to balance rest and activity.
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