he nurse observes the client experiencing a panic attack in the day room in the behavioral health unit. Which is the priority action by the nurse?
Educate the client in ways to prevent a future panic attack.
Take the client for a walk around the unit
Stay with the client and maintain a safe environment
Redirect the client to an activity or task
The Correct Answer is C
During a panic attack, the client may experience intense fear and anxiety, accompanied by physical symptoms such as rapid heart rate, shortness of breath, and trembling. The most critical action the nurse should take is to stay with the client and provide support. By remaining present, the nurse can help the client feel safe and reassured, while also monitoring their condition for any signs of worsening distress or the need for further intervention. Maintaining a safe environment is also crucial to prevent any harm to the client or others. Once the immediate crisis is managed and the client starts to calm down, the nurse can then proceed with other interventions, such as education on coping strategies or engaging in activities to redirect their focus. However, in this situation, the priority is to provide immediate support and ensure the client's safety.
The following are incorrect because:
Educate the client in ways to prevent a future panic attack: While education on preventing future panic attacks is important, it is not the priority action during an ongoing panic attack. The client is currently in distress and needs immediate support and assistance in managing the panic attack. Education can be provided at a later time when the client is calmer and more receptive to learning.
Take the client for a walk around the unit: Taking the client for a walk may be a beneficial intervention to help reduce anxiety and promote relaxation in some situations. However, during an active panic attack, the client may be experiencing significant distress and physical symptoms that can make movement difficult or exacerbate their symptoms. It is essential to prioritize the client's immediate needs and provide a supportive environment before considering other activities or interventions.
Redirect the client to an activity or task: Redirecting the client to an activity or task may be helpful in some situations to distract them from their anxiety. However, during a panic attack, the client may find it challenging to engage in activities or focus on tasks due to their heightened state of anxiety. Redirecting their attention without addressing their immediate distress may not be as effective or appropriate as providing support and maintaining a safe environment.
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Naxlex Comprehensive Predictor Exams
Related Questions
Correct Answer is B
Explanation
a.Stabilization and management of symptoms are critical goals for any client with schizophrenia. However, in psychiatric rehabilitation, the focus goes beyond merely stabilizing symptoms. The goal is often to enhance the client’s ability to function in daily life and improve their overall well-being, not just manage symptoms.
b.The primary outcome of a psychiatric rehabilitation program is to help clients improve their overall quality of life. This includes helping them develop skills for independent living, managing their symptoms effectively, enhancing social interactions, and improving their sense of purpose and well-being.
c.In cases of chronic mental health conditions like schizophrenia, it may not always be realistic or possible for clients to return to their prior level of functioning before the onset of the illness. The focus is more on helping the client achieve the best possible level of functioning within the limits of their condition, rather than returning to a specific previous state.
d.While medication adherence is crucial in the treatment of schizophrenia, it is just one component of managing the condition. Psychiatric rehabilitation is a holistic process that includes psychosocial interventions, skills training, and social support. Medication adherence supports symptom management, but it is not the primary outcome.
Correct Answer is ["B","C","D","E"]
Explanation
The client attributes life's problems to being without family support: Lack of family support can significantly impact an individual's mental health and well-being. It can lead to feelings of isolation, loneliness, and a lack of emotional support, potentially contributing to the development or exacerbation of mental illness.
The client is unable to find work and does not have enough money for housing: Financial instability, unemployment, and inadequate housing are social determinants of mental health. These factors can contribute to stress, anxiety, and a sense of hopelessness, which may impact the client's mental well-being.
The client states that they are discriminated against due to their country of origin: Experiencing discrimination based on one's country of origin can lead to feelings of marginalization, social exclusion, and psychological distress. Discrimination is a social factor that can contribute to the development of mental illness or exacerbate existing mental health conditions.
The client reports not belonging anywhere and is without family support: Feeling a lack of belonging or a sense of disconnectedness can have a negative impact on mental health. It can contribute to feelings of isolation, low self-esteem, and depression. Additionally, lacking family support further compounds the client's sense of not belonging, potentially affecting their mental well-being.
Incorrect:
The client reports being unable to find anything meaningful within their life: While this statement suggests a lack of purpose or fulfillment in the client's life, it does not specifically address social or cultural factors that could contribute to their mental illness. It may be important to explore further during the assessment to identify underlying issues, but it does not fall under the social/cultural category.
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