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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Related Questions
Correct Answer is D
Explanation
d. Observe the client for 1 hr after meals.
Explanation:
The correct answer is d. Observe the client for 1 hr after meals.
For a client with bulimia nervosa, it is important to closely monitor their behavior after meals to prevent purging behaviors and ensure their safety. Observing the client for 1 hour after meals allows the nurse to provide support, encourage healthy coping strategies, and intervene if necessary to prevent purging episodes.
Option a, administering bupropion 1 hour before meals, is not an appropriate intervention for bulimia nervosa. Bupropion is an antidepressant medication that may be used for certain mood disorders, but it is not the primary treatment for bulimia nervosa.
Option b, allowing the client access to food throughout the day, is not a recommended intervention for a client with bulimia nervosa. Clients with bulimia nervosa often struggle with impulse control and binge eating behaviors. Allowing unrestricted access to food may exacerbate their symptoms and increase the risk of binge-purge cycles.
Option c, weighing the client once weekly, is not the most appropriate intervention for managing bulimia nervosa. While weight monitoring may be a component of treatment, it should not be the sole focus. The treatment for bulimia nervosa involves addressing the underlying psychological and behavioral factors contributing to the disorder.
By recommending the observation of the client for 1 hour after meals, the nurse can provide necessary support, monitor the client for potential purging behaviors, and promote a safe and therapeutic environment for their recovery from bulimia nervosa.
Correct Answer is C
Explanation
Answer: C. Weigh the client each morning after voiding
Rationale:
A. Encourage the client to gain 2.3 kg (5 lb) per week:
A weight gain goal of 0.5 to 1 kg (1 to 2 lb) per week is considered safe and realistic. Gaining 2.3 kg (5 lb) weekly is too aggressive and may cause physical and psychological stress for the client.
B. Monitor the client for 15 min after meals:
Clients with anorexia nervosa are at risk for purging behaviors. Monitoring for only 15 minutes is insufficient. A 60-minute post-meal observation period is more appropriate to deter vomiting or excessive exercise.
C. Weigh the client each morning after voiding:
Daily weights, taken at the same time each morning after voiding and before eating, provide consistent and accurate data to monitor progress and detect manipulation or fluid shifts.
D. Reinforce teaching about healthy eating during meals:
Reinforcing education during meals can increase the client’s anxiety and resistance to eating. Teaching is best done separately from mealtimes to avoid associating eating with stress.
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