A patient is being treated on the mental health unit for an anxiety disorder. The patient approaches the nurse and reports feeling dizzy and weak, with a sensation of a racing heart. The nursing care plan includes interventions of imagery exercises and as-needed lorazepam (Ativan) for symptoms of anxiety. What should the nurse do first?
Obtain the patient's vital signs.
Give the patient the prescribed as-needed lorazepam.
Instruct the patient to sit and breathe deeply.
Instruct the patient in an imagery exercise.
The Correct Answer is A
Choice A reason: The first step should always be to assess the patient's physical state to rule out any immediate life-threatening conditions before proceeding with psychiatric interventions.
Choice B reason: Administering medication may be necessary, but it should not precede an assessment of the patient's vital signs.
Choice C reason: While instructing the patient to sit and breathe deeply can help alleviate symptoms of anxiety, it is not the first action to take before assessing the patient's vital signs.
Choice D reason: Imagery exercises can be helpful for managing anxiety, but they are not the priority before ensuring the patient's physiological stability.
Nursing Test Bank
Naxlex Comprehensive Predictor Exams
Related Questions
Correct Answer is ["A","C","E"]
Explanation
Choice A reason: Making decisions for the patient can undermine their autonomy and is not therapeutic in treating Paranoid Personality Disorder.
Choice B reason: Avoiding situations that the patient may perceive as demeaning is actually an appropriate intervention, as it helps to build trust and rapport.
Choice C reason: Greatly limiting social contact is not recommended as it can increase feelings of isolation and paranoia.
Choice D reason: Avoiding discussion of the treatment plan is not appropriate; patients should be involved in their care decisions to the greatest extent possible.
Choice E reason: Maintaining honest, open communication is an appropriate and necessary intervention for building a therapeutic relationship with a patient with Paranoid Personality Disorder.
Correct Answer is B
Explanation
Choice A reason: Extending the scheduled time could reinforce the client's resistance to discussing feelings until the end of the session, which is not therapeutic.
Choice B reason: Ending at the scheduled time maintains boundaries and structure, which are important in the therapeutic relationship, especially with clients who have personality disorders.
Choice C reason: Arranging for another nurse to continue the interview may disrupt the continuity of care and the therapeutic relationship.
Choice D reason: Setting an extra meeting time could be considered if the client's needs are urgent, but it is not the best option in this scenario as it may reinforce avoidance behaviors.
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