A nurse is assessing a client with panic disorder. Which of the following symptoms should the nurse expect to find during a panic attack? Select all that apply.

Palpitations.

Numbness and tingling.

Increased appetite.

Fear of losing control.

Muscle weakness.

Answer and Explanation

Correct Answer : A,B,D,E

Choice A rationale:

Palpitations, or a racing heart, are a common symptom of panic attacks. The body's "fight or flight" response during a panic attack can lead to rapid heart rate and sensations of palpitations.

Choice B rationale:

Numbness and tingling sensations, often referred to as paresthesias, can occur during a panic attack. These sensations are a result of the body's physiological response to stress, leading to altered sensory perceptions.

Choice D rationale:

Fear of losing control is a characteristic symptom of panic attacks. Individuals with panic disorder often describe feeling as though they are losing control over their thoughts, emotions, or even their physical actions during an attack.

Choice E rationale:

Muscle weakness can be experienced during a panic attack due to the release of stress hormones and the physiological changes that accompany the fight-or-flight response. This weakness can affect various muscle groups.

Choice C rationale:

Increased appetite is not typically associated with panic attacks. Panic attacks are more commonly associated with gastrointestinal symptoms such as nausea or stomach discomfort rather than an increased appetite.

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Correct Answer is D

Explanation

The correct answer is Choice D.

Choice A rationale: Avoidance reinforces fear conditioning and impairs extinction learning; exposure-based strategies are more effective in reducing panic symptoms and restoring functional coping through cognitive-behavioral therapy.

Choice B rationale: Panic attacks are driven by autonomic dysregulation and cognitive misinterpretation, not physical pathology; suggesting physical illness increases somatic focus and health anxiety, worsening panic disorder outcomes.

Choice C rationale: Ignoring panic attacks delays cognitive restructuring and emotional processing; distraction may help short-term but does not address underlying maladaptive beliefs or autonomic hyperarousal.

Choice D rationale: Comorbidity between panic disorder and depression is well-documented; shared neurobiological pathways and chronic distress increase risk for mood disorders, requiring integrated assessment and treatment planning.

A. Teach relaxation techniques. B. Administer antianxiety medication. C. Encourage socialization. D. Monitor vital signs regularly.

Correct Answer is A

Explanation

Choice A rationale:

Teaching relaxation techniques is a priority intervention for clients with panic disorder. Relaxation techniques, such as deep breathing, progressive muscle relaxation, and mindfulness, can help manage anxiety symptoms and reduce the frequency and intensity of panic attacks. These techniques empower clients to regain a sense of control over their anxiety.

Choice B rationale:

Administering antianxiety medication can be a helpful intervention, but it should not be prioritized over non-pharmacological approaches like teaching relaxation techniques. Medications may have side effects and are typically considered after other strategies have been explored.

Choice C rationale:

Encouraging socialization is important for overall mental health, but it may not directly address the immediate needs of a client experiencing panic disorder. Managing panic attacks and providing coping mechanisms should take precedence during the assessment.

Choice D rationale:

Monitoring vital signs regularly is important, but it is not the highest priority for a client with panic disorder. Addressing anxiety symptoms and providing appropriate interventions to manage panic attacks should come first.

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A nurse is assessing a client with panic disorder. Which of the following symptoms should the nurse expect to find during a panic attack? Select all that apply.

Nursing Test Bank

Naxlex Comprehensive Predictor Exams

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Correct Answer is D

Explanation

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Correct Answer is A

Explanation

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