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?

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.

A. The client will implement alternative strategies for managing anxiety.

While addressing anxiety is important for the overall well-being of the client, it may not be the highest priority in this context. The immediate physical safety of the client during alcohol withdrawal takes precedence over addressing anxiety.

B. The client will acknowledge alcohol dependence and need for treatment.

Recognizing alcohol dependence and the need for treatment is an important step, but it may not be the highest priority. It is more focused on the client's acceptance and understanding of their situation rather than addressing immediate health risks.

C. The client's withdrawal from alcohol will be managed without complications.

This is the correct answer. Managing alcohol withdrawal without complications is the highest priority goal in this scenario. Alcohol withdrawal can lead to severe physical symptoms, including seizures and delirium tremens, which can be life-threatening. Ensuring the safe and medically supervised management of withdrawal is crucial for the client's immediate well-being.

D. The client will rebuild damaged interpersonal relationships.

While repairing damaged relationships is important for the client's overall rehabilitation, it's not the highest priority in this context. Physical health and safety take precedence over addressing interpersonal issues.