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
Related Questions
Correct Answer is D
Explanation
The nurse should recognize that the client needs a referral for diabetic education when the client lists sweating, shaking, and palpitations as symptoms of hyperglycemia. These symptoms are actually associated with hypoglycemia, not hyperglycemia. Hyperglycemia is characterized by symptoms such as increased thirst, frequent urination, and fatigue.
Option a is incorrect because drawing up regular insulin before NPH when demonstrating injection technique is the correct procedure.
Option b is incorrect because seeing a primary care provider to treat corns on the feet is an appropriate action for a client with diabetes.
Option c is incorrect because treating hypoglycemic reactions with 15 g of carbohydrates is the recommended treatment.
Correct Answer is C
Explanation
The nurse should inform the family that the client has the right to refuse medication. It is important to
respect the client's autonomy and right to make decisions about their own care.
a) Scheduling the medication at meal times does not address the issue of the client refusing their medication.
b) Requesting that the family talk to the provider about administering the medication by injection may be an option, but it does not address the issue of informed consent.
d) Asking the family what foods the client likes does not address the issue of informed consent and could be seen as a way to deceive the client into taking their medication.
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