A 30-year-old woman visits the mental health clinic reporting high levels of anxiety following a traumatic event. Which of the following actions should the nurse prioritize in this scenario? (Select all that apply)

Choice A reason: Referring to a psychiatrist for medication may be premature without a full assessment. Anxiety post-trauma can stem from PTSD or acute stress disorder, requiring a detailed evaluation to identify causes. Medications like SSRIs may help, but initiating them without understanding the client’s psychological state risks inappropriate treatment, potentially exacerbating symptoms or delaying effective care.

Choice B reason: Group therapy offers social support but may not be the priority immediately post-trauma. Trauma can heighten anxiety in group settings, potentially overwhelming the client. Scientifically, individualized assessment and coping strategies are needed first to stabilize the client’s mental state, as group dynamics may trigger stress responses or hinder early recovery efforts.

Choice C reason: A comprehensive mental health assessment is critical to identify the root causes of anxiety, such as PTSD or acute stress disorder. It evaluates cognitive, emotional, and behavioral symptoms, guiding targeted interventions. Scientifically, this ensures accurate diagnosis, preventing missteps in treatment and addressing trauma-related neurobiological changes, like heightened amygdala activity, for effective care planning.

Choice D reason: Teaching anxiety coping mechanisms, like deep breathing or mindfulness, empowers the client to manage symptoms. These techniques reduce physiological arousal, such as elevated heart rate, by activating the parasympathetic nervous system. Scientifically, they mitigate acute stress responses, promoting emotional regulation and stabilizing the client’s mental health post-trauma, enhancing long-term recovery.

Choice E reason: Beginning cognitive behavioral therapy immediately may be premature without a full assessment. CBT is effective for trauma-related disorders but requires a tailored approach based on the client’s specific symptoms. Starting without understanding the client’s psychological state risks ineffective therapy, as unaddressed acute symptoms may interfere with cognitive processing and therapeutic engagement.