A nurse is providing education to a client with panic disorder about the pharmacological treatment options. Which statement by the client indicates understanding of the teaching?

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.

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.