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 B
Explanation
Client diagnosed with hypomania who is speaking loudly on the unit: While hypomanic individuals may exhibit increased energy and talkativeness, the urgency is lower compared to a client expressing active suicidal ideations. This client does not pose an immediate threat to themselves or others.
B. Client diagnosed with mania who expressed active suicidal ideations: This is the correct answer. A client with active suicidal ideations is at an elevated risk and requires immediate attention. Suicidal thoughts in the context of mania can be impulsive, and prompt intervention is crucial to ensure the client's safety.
C. Client with a history of mania who is pacing in the hallway: Pacing may be a symptom of mania, but without additional information about the client's current state and any potential immediate risks, the client expressing active suicidal ideations takes precedence.
D. Client diagnosed with hypomania who is complaining of pain: Pain complaints, in the absence of other urgent factors, do not take precedence over active suicidal ideations. The risk of harm to oneself or others is a higher priority.
Correct Answer is B
Explanation
A. "The voices talk only at night when I'm trying to sleep."
This statement does not necessarily indicate a direct threat to the patient or others. It may be a manifestation of hallucination, but it doesn't explicitly pose a danger.
B. "The voices say everyone is trying to kill me."
This statement suggests paranoid delusions and a direct threat to the patient's safety. The nurse should implement safety measures to protect the patient and others from potential harm.
C. "I hear angels playing harps."
This statement describes a positive or benign hallucination, which may not require immediate safety measures. While it might be distressing for the patient, it doesn't pose an imminent danger.
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