Which psychotherapy technique can help clients with panic disorder gradually confront their feared situations or places?

Choice A rationale:

Providing a safe and calm environment for the client during a panic attack is crucial to help minimize distress and prevent harm. Panic attacks can lead to heightened anxiety and fear, and creating a safe space can help the client feel secure. This intervention aids in reducing the overall intensity and duration of the panic attack.

Choice B rationale:

Using therapeutic communication skills to establish rapport and trust with the client is essential in managing panic disorder. By employing active listening, empathy, and non-judgmental responses, the nurse can create a supportive environment. Building a therapeutic relationship enhances the client's willingness to communicate, share their experiences, and adhere to the treatment plan.

Choice C rationale:

Educating the client about panic disorder and its treatment options is important, but it might be overwhelming during a panic attack. Providing education can be more effective when the client is relatively stable and receptive. The immediate focus during a panic attack should be on providing comfort and support.

Choice D rationale:

Encouraging the client to participate in cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT) is a valuable intervention for panic disorder. However, suggesting this during a panic attack might not be appropriate, as the client's focus and ability to engage in a discussion could be compromised. It's better to introduce the idea of CBT when the client is in a more receptive state.

Choice E rationale:

Referring the client to self-help groups for peer support and education is also a beneficial intervention. However, during a panic attack, the client may not be open to the idea of group involvement. This recommendation is better suited for a calmer moment when the client can consider it more rationally.

Choice A rationale:

The nursing diagnosis "Anxiety related to perceived threats or loss of control" is appropriate for a client with panic disorder. Panic disorder is characterized by recurrent and unexpected panic attacks, leading to heightened anxiety and apprehension. The client often perceives a loss of control during these attacks, making this diagnosis suitable.

Choice B rationale:

"Impaired social interaction related to avoidance behavior or low self-esteem" is not the most appropriate diagnosis for panic disorder. While social interaction might be affected, the core feature of panic disorder is the occurrence of panic attacks. The chosen diagnosis does not directly address this aspect.

Choice C rationale:

"Risk for self-directed violence related to hopelessness or depression" is not the most fitting diagnosis for panic disorder. Panic attacks typically involve intense anxiety and fear rather than depression or hopelessness, which are more associated with mood disorders.

Choice D rationale:

"Knowledge deficit related to panic disorder and its treatment" is not the best diagnosis for a client with panic disorder. While education about the disorder is important, panic disorder is primarily characterized by the presence of panic attacks and related symptoms, which should take precedence in the nursing diagnosis.