A nurse is providing education to a client diagnosed with panic disorder. Which of the following statements by the client indicates an understanding of the disorder?
"I think my panic attacks are caused by a specific substance I'm using.".
"I avoid situations that might trigger my panic attacks.".
"I don't worry about having more panic attacks.".
"I believe my panic attacks are a result of a physical health problem.".
The Correct Answer is B
Choice A rationale:
The statement "I think my panic attacks are caused by a specific substance I'm using" suggests a possible link between substance use and panic attacks, which is not a typical characteristic of panic disorder. Panic disorder is primarily characterized by recurrent and unexpected panic attacks, not necessarily triggered by specific substances.
Choice B rationale:
The statement "I avoid situations that might trigger my panic attacks" reflects an understanding of the disorder. People with panic disorder often develop avoidance behaviors to prevent or minimize the occurrence of panic attacks. Avoidance of triggers is a common coping mechanism used to manage the fear associated with panic attacks.
Choice C rationale:
The statement "I don't worry about having more panic attacks" contradicts the typical experience of individuals with panic disorder. People with panic disorder often have heightened worry and fear about experiencing more panic attacks, which contributes to the cycle of anxiety.
Choice D rationale:
The statement "I believe my panic attacks are a result of a physical health problem" suggests a misunderstanding of panic disorder. While panic attacks can manifest with physical symptoms, they are primarily caused by psychological factors, such as anxiety and fear, rather than solely by physical health problems.
Nursing Test Bank
Naxlex Comprehensive Predictor Exams
Related Questions
Correct Answer is B
Explanation
Choice A rationale:
The statement "I'm not worried about having another panic attack" indicates a lack of understanding of anticipatory anxiety. Anticipatory anxiety is characterized by the fear of experiencing future panic attacks, so this statement contradicts that concept.
Choice B rationale:
This choice is correct because it reflects an accurate understanding of anticipatory anxiety. Anticipatory anxiety is the fear of being in situations or places where escape might be challenging or embarrassing in the event of a panic attack. This fear often leads to avoidance behavior and can worsen the overall anxiety.
Choice C rationale:
The statement "I don't think my panic attacks are related to my thought patterns" suggests a misunderstanding of the connection between thoughts and panic attacks. In reality, panic attacks are often triggered by anxious thoughts and thought patterns.
Choice D rationale:
The statement "I believe my panic attacks are caused by a substance I'm using" indicates a different perspective on the origin of panic attacks. While substance use can contribute to anxiety or trigger panic attacks in some cases, anticipatory anxiety specifically refers to the fear of future panic attacks, not their immediate causes.
Correct Answer is C
Explanation
Choice A rationale:
Beta-blockers are not commonly used for the pharmacological treatment of panic disorder. While they are used for conditions like hypertension and certain heart conditions, they are not the primary choice for panic disorder. Panic disorder primarily involves disturbances in brain neurotransmitters, which beta-blockers do not directly target.
Choice B rationale:
Anticonvulsants are not the primary choice for treating panic disorder. While they may be used for other conditions such as epilepsy or bipolar disorder, their effectiveness in treating panic disorder is limited compared to other classes of medications like SSRIs.
Choice C rationale:
Selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors (SSRIs) are commonly used for the pharmacological treatment of panic disorder. Panic disorder often involves imbalances in serotonin, a neurotransmitter that plays a crucial role in mood regulation. SSRIs help increase serotonin levels in the brain by blocking its reuptake, thereby alleviating symptoms of panic and anxiety.
Choice D rationale:
Tricyclic antidepressants (TCAs) are sometimes used for panic disorder, but they are not the first-line treatment due to their potential side effects and safety concerns. SSRIs have largely replaced TCAs as the preferred choice due to their better tolerability and safety profile.
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