A cab driver stuck in traffic is suddenly lightheaded, tremulous, and diaphoretic and experiences tachycardia and dyspnea. An extensive workup in an emergency department reveals no pathology. Which medical diagnosis is suspected, and what nursing diagnosis takes priority?
Generalized anxiety disorder and a nursing diagnosis of fear
Panic disorder and a nursing diagnosis of panic anxiety
Pain disorder and a nursing diagnosis of altered role performance
Altered sensory perception and a nursing diagnosis of panic disorder
The Correct Answer is B
A. Generalized anxiety disorder and a nursing diagnosis of fear: Generalized anxiety disorder typically involves chronic, excessive worrying and anxiety that is not limited to specific situations or triggers. The sudden and intense symptoms described in the scenario, such as lightheadedness, tremulousness, diaphoresis, tachycardia, and dyspnea, are more indicative of a panic attack rather than generalized anxiety. The nursing diagnosis of fear may not fully capture the acute and intense nature of panic symptoms.
B. Panic disorder and a nursing diagnosis of panic anxiety: This is the correct answer. Panic disorder is characterized by recurrent, unexpected panic attacks, which align with the sudden onset of symptoms described in the scenario. The nursing diagnosis of panic anxiety is appropriate as it addresses the acute distress associated with panic attacks.
C. Pain disorder and a nursing diagnosis of altered role performance: There is no indication of pain being the primary issue in this scenario. The symptoms are more indicative of a panic attack rather than a pain disorder. Additionally, altered role performance is not a priority nursing diagnosis when addressing the acute symptoms of a panic attack.
D. Altered sensory perception and a nursing diagnosis of panic disorder: Altered sensory perception is not the primary issue in this scenario, and it does not specifically address the sudden and intense symptoms described. The focus should be on the panic symptoms and the associated distress, leading to the nursing diagnosis of panic anxiety.
Nursing Test Bank
Naxlex Comprehensive Predictor Exams
Related Questions
Correct Answer is A
Explanation
Orientation: When a nurse asks a client to identify their name, date, residential address, and situation, they are assessing the client's orientation. Orientation refers to an individual's awareness of time, place, person, and situation.
B. Affect: Affect refers to the observable expression of emotions. It involves the client's emotional tone, such as being happy, sad, angry, or flat. It is not directly assessed by asking about personal information.
C. Perception: Perception involves the way individuals interpret and make sense of sensory information. Asking about personal information is more related to orientation than perception.
D. Mood: Mood refers to a more sustained emotional state. It is not directly assessed by asking for specific personal information about the current situation or location.
Correct Answer is B
Explanation
A. "Did you take your medicine this morning?": While medication adherence is important, this response does not directly address the client's distress or validate their experience. It may come across as dismissive.
B. "I'm sure the voices sound scary, I don't hear any voices speaking.": This response acknowledges the client's experience without confirming or denying the presence of the voices. It expresses empathy and provides reassurance, fostering a therapeutic relationship.
C. "The devil only talks to people who are receptive to his influence": This response introduces a belief system that may not align with the client's reality and could be perceived as judgmental. It's important to avoid imposing personal beliefs on clients experiencing hallucinations.
D. "You are not going to hell. You are a good person": While expressing support and reassurance is positive, making definitive statements about the client's fate or goodness may not be helpful. It's more effective to acknowledge the distress without making absolute affirmations.
Whether you are a student looking to ace your exams or a practicing nurse seeking to enhance your expertise , our nursing education contents will empower you with the confidence and competence to make a difference in the lives of patients and become a respected leader in the healthcare field.
Visit Naxlex, invest in your future and unlock endless possibilities with our unparalleled nursing education contents today
Report Wrong Answer on the Current Question
Do you disagree with the answer? If yes, what is your expected answer? Explain.
Kindly be descriptive with the issue you are facing.