A nurse is caring for a client with anxiety disorder who is prescribed anxiolytic medication. What is the mechanism of action of anxiolytics?

"Development of coping skills."

Choice A rationale:

Increased risk of depression is not a positive outcome of nursing interventions. The goal is to alleviate symptoms and improve the client's well-being, not to introduce new mental health challenges.

Choice B rationale:

Reduced adherence to medical treatment is a negative outcome. It suggests that the client's anxiety might be interfering with their ability to follow recommended treatments, which is undesirable.

Choice C rationale:

This is the correct choice. Developing coping skills is a positive outcome. It indicates that the client is learning effective ways to manage their anxiety, enhancing their overall quality of life.

Choice D rationale:

Impairment in personal domains is a negative outcome. Nursing interventions aim to improve functioning and minimize impairment, so this choice contradicts the therapeutic goals.

Generalized anxiety disorder (GAD)

Choice A rationale:

Asking the client about their favorite hobbies is an appropriate statement during the assessment. This open-ended question encourages the client to talk about positive and enjoyable aspects of their life, providing insight into their interests and potential sources of relaxation. It also helps build rapport and trust between the nurse and the client.

Choice B rationale:

Advising the client to avoid anxiety-inducing situations oversimplifies anxiety management. Avoidance can reinforce anxiety and prevent the client from developing effective coping strategies. Encouraging gradual exposure to manageable stressors is often a more helpful approach.

Choice C rationale:

Asking "Why do you feel this way?" can be perceived as confrontational and may put the client on the defensive. It might hinder open communication and prevent the client from fully expressing their feelings. Instead, using more open-ended and nonjudgmental questions is recommended.

Choice D rationale:

Minimizing anxiety by stating that "Anxiety is not a big deal, everyone feels it sometimes" is dismissive of the client's emotions. It invalidates their experience and fails to acknowledge the impact anxiety may have on their well-being. Providing empathy and understanding is crucial in therapeutic communication.