A nurse on a mental health unit is caring for a client who has generalized anxiety disorder. The client received a telephone call that was upsetting, and now the client is pacing up and down the corridors of the unit. Which of the following actions should the nurse take?

Have a staff member escort the client to her room.

Allow the client to pace alone until physically tired.

Instruct the client to sit down and stop pacing.

Walk with the client at a gradually slower pace.

Answer and Explanation

The Correct Answer is D

A) Have a staff member escort the client to her room:

Having a staff member escort the client to her room might be perceived as restrictive and could potentially escalate the client's anxiety. It's important to give the client some autonomy and not force them into isolation.

B) Allow the client to pace alone until physically tired:

While allowing the client to pace alone might seem like a non-intrusive option, it lacks the therapeutic engagement that can help the client feel supported and understood. It's important for the nurse to actively engage with the client to establish a therapeutic relationship.

C) Instruct the client to sit down and stop pacing:

Instructing the client to stop pacing could potentially increase their agitation and anxiety. Forcing the client to sit down against their wishes might lead to resistance and hinder the development of trust between the nurse and the client.

D) Walk with the client at a gradually slower pace:

This is the correct answer. Walking with the client at a gradually slower pace is a therapeutic approach that allows the nurse to build rapport, provide support, and help the client regulate their emotions. It respects the client's need for movement while also addressing their emotional state.

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Correct Answer is D

Explanation

A. "How long has this been going on?":

While this question is important for gathering more information, it may come across as more investigative or less empathetic at this initial stage of the conversation.

B. "Why do you think you are so anxious?":

While it's important to understand the client's perspective, this response might come across as confrontational or judgmental. It's better to create an open and non-judgmental environment for the client to share their feelings.

C. "Have you talked to your parents about this yet?":

This response assumes that the client has parents to talk to and may not be relevant for all clients. It's also important to establish trust and rapport with the client before asking about their support network.

D. "It sounds like you're having a difficult time.":

This response is empathetic and validating. It acknowledges the client's feelings without making assumptions or demands, creating a supportive environment for further discussion.

A. You are being unreasonable, and I will not call your doctor at this hour." B. Go back to your room, and I'll try to get in touch with your doctor." C. You must be very upset about something D. I can't call a doctor in the middle of the night unless it's an emergency."

Correct Answer is C

Explanation

A. "You are being unreasonable, and I will not call your doctor at this hour."

This response is confrontational and dismissive of the client's request. It does not promote a therapeutic interaction and might escalate the situation.

B. "Go back to your room, and I'll try to get in touch with your doctor."

This response might temporarily calm the client, but it’s misleading if the nurse does not intend to call the doctor. It also avoids addressing the client's immediate emotional needs and could result in a loss of trust if the nurse doesn’t follow through.

C. "You must be very upset about something."

This is the most therapeutic response. It acknowledges the client’s feelings without judgment and opens up communication. It allows the nurse to explore the client’s concerns, which is essential in providing appropriate care and support in a psychiatric setting.

D. "I can't call a doctor in the middle of the night unless it's an emergency."

While this statement is factually correct, it can come across as dismissive and could escalate the client's agitation. It does not acknowledge the client's emotions and might make the client feel that their concerns are not being taken seriously.

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A nurse on a mental health unit is caring for a client who has generalized anxiety disorder. The client received a telephone call that was upsetting, and now the client is pacing up and down the corridors of the unit. Which of the following actions should the nurse take?

Nursing Test Bank

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