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?

Choice A reason: LPNs are involved in developing the patient's plan of care by gathering data and collaborating with the RN to ensure the plan is tailored to the patient's needs.

Choice B reason: Providing informed consent is typically the responsibility of the physician or advanced practice nurses, not the LPN.

Choice C reason: LPNs provide emotional support to patients, helping to alleviate anxiety and offering comfort before the surgery.

Choice D reason: LPNs assist with data collection, such as gathering vital signs and medical history, which is crucial for the preoperative assessment.

Choice E reason: Including families in preoperative care is part of the holistic approach to nursing, where LPNs can provide information and support to the patient's family.

Choice F reason: LPNs reinforce patient teaching by reviewing instructions and care plans with the patient and their family to ensure understanding and compliance.

Choice A reason: Respiratory depression is not a typical finding associated with anemia; it is more related to respiratory or central nervous system issues.

Choice B reason: Intense abdominal pain is not a common symptom of anemia and would likely indicate other medical conditions.

Choice C reason: Bradycardia, or slow heart rate, is not commonly associated with anemia. Anemia usually causes tachycardia, or a fast heart rate, as the body attempts to compensate for the reduced oxygen-carrying capacity of the blood.

Choice D reason: Dyspnea on exertion is a common symptom of anemia, as the reduced number of red blood cells leads to decreased oxygen delivery to the tissues, causing shortness of breath during activities.