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 C rationale:

Responding with empathy and validation, such as acknowledging the client's concerns about starting therapy, is appropriate communication. It demonstrates the nurse's understanding of the client's feelings and helps establish a supportive and trusting relationship. Many individuals with anxiety disorder have reservations about therapy, and addressing their concerns can alleviate some of their apprehensions.

Choice A rationale:

Suggesting that "Therapy won't really help, but you should try it anyway" is discouraging and undermines the potential benefits of therapy. It may lead to decreased motivation and engagement in the therapeutic process.

Choice B rationale:

Instructing the client to solely rely on medications oversimplifies treatment and disregards the potential effectiveness of therapy and other coping strategies. Medications can be a part of the treatment plan, but a comprehensive approach is usually recommended.

Choice D rationale:

Advising the client to rely on friends and family for support instead of seeking professional help minimizes the importance of therapeutic interventions. While social support is valuable, it is not a substitute for evidence-based treatments for anxiety disorder.