A nurse is conducting a nursing assessment for a client with panic disorder. Which data should the nurse collect during the assessment?

Choice A rationale:

"Tell me about your coping strategies and support system." This choice may not be the most appropriate initial question because it focuses on coping strategies and support systems rather than gathering information about the frequency and triggers of panic attacks. While coping strategies and support systems are important, understanding the pattern of panic attacks is crucial for assessment and planning.

Choice B rationale:

"How often do you experience panic attacks and what triggers them?" This is the correct choice. It directly addresses the primary concerns related to panic disorder by inquiring about the frequency of panic attacks and their triggers. This information is essential for developing a comprehensive understanding of the client's condition and tailoring an effective treatment plan.

Choice C rationale:

"What medications are you currently taking for your panic disorder?" While inquiring about medication use is important, this question should come after understanding the frequency and triggers of panic attacks. Knowing about medications alone does not provide a holistic picture of the client's experience with panic disorder.

Choice D rationale:

"Have you ever had any laboratory tests done for your panic disorder?" This question is not directly relevant to the assessment of panic disorder. Panic disorder is primarily diagnosed based on clinical symptoms and criteria outlined in diagnostic manuals like the DSM-5. Laboratory tests are not routinely used for diagnosing panic disorder, so this question might not yield pertinent information for assessment.

Choice A rationale:

The nursing diagnosis "Anxiety related to perceived threats or loss of control" is appropriate for a client with panic disorder. Panic disorder is characterized by recurrent and unexpected panic attacks, leading to heightened anxiety and apprehension. The client often perceives a loss of control during these attacks, making this diagnosis suitable.

Choice B rationale:

"Impaired social interaction related to avoidance behavior or low self-esteem" is not the most appropriate diagnosis for panic disorder. While social interaction might be affected, the core feature of panic disorder is the occurrence of panic attacks. The chosen diagnosis does not directly address this aspect.

Choice C rationale:

"Risk for self-directed violence related to hopelessness or depression" is not the most fitting diagnosis for panic disorder. Panic attacks typically involve intense anxiety and fear rather than depression or hopelessness, which are more associated with mood disorders.

Choice D rationale:

"Knowledge deficit related to panic disorder and its treatment" is not the best diagnosis for a client with panic disorder. While education about the disorder is important, panic disorder is primarily characterized by the presence of panic attacks and related symptoms, which should take precedence in the nursing diagnosis.