A client diagnosed with an Anxiety Disorder tells a nurse that being in crowds creates thoughts of losing control and the need to suddenly leave. What should the nurse recommend as an effective, non-pharmacological therapy for managing the client’s symptoms of anxiety?

The correct answer is a.

Choice A Reason:

The statement “Biofeedback” is correct. Biofeedback is a technique that uses electronic monitoring devices to help individuals gain control over involuntary bodily functions such as heart rate, muscle tension, and blood pressure. During biofeedback sessions, sensors are attached to the body to measure physiological functions, and the feedback from these sensors helps clients learn to control their physical responses to stress. This method is particularly effective for managing conditions like chronic pain, anxiety, and hypertension.

Choice B Reason:

The statement “Acupuncture” is incorrect. Acupuncture is a traditional Chinese medicine practice that involves inserting thin needles into specific points on the body to balance the flow of energy or qi. While acupuncture can help manage stress and pain, it does not use electronic monitoring devices to provide feedback on physiological functions5. Instead, it relies on the practitioner’s skill and knowledge of acupuncture points and meridians.

Choice C Reason:

The statement “Reiki” is incorrect. Reiki is a form of energy healing that involves the practitioner placing their hands lightly on or just above the client’s body to channel healing energy. Reiki aims to promote relaxation, reduce stress, and support the body’s natural healing processes. However, it does not involve the use of electronic monitoring devices to provide feedback on physiological functions.

Choice D Reason:

The statement “Autogenic training” is incorrect. Autogenic training is a relaxation technique that involves self-suggestion and visualization to induce a state of relaxation and reduce stress. It focuses on creating sensations of warmth and heaviness in different parts of the body through repeated phrases and mental imagery. While effective for stress management, it does not use electronic monitoring devices to provide feedback on physiological functions.

Choice A Reason:

Administer the medication with food.

Administering clonazepam with food can help reduce gastrointestinal discomfort, but it is not the most critical consideration. While it is beneficial to minimize potential side effects like nausea, it does not address the primary safety concerns associated with clonazepam use.

Choice B Reason:

Administer the medication to the client at night to avoid daytime sedation.

Administering clonazepam at night can help avoid daytime sedation, which is a common side effect of benzodiazepines. However, this is not the most critical safety concern. While managing sedation is important, it does not address the potential for more serious interactions and risks.

Choice C Reason:

Encourage the client to avoid drinking alcohol when taking this medication.

This is the correct response. Alcohol can significantly increase the sedative effects of clonazepam, leading to dangerous levels of sedation, respiratory depression, and even death. It is crucial to educate clients about the risks of combining alcohol with benzodiazepines to prevent potentially life-threatening interactions.

Choice D Reason:

Assess for history of smoking.

While assessing for a history of smoking is part of a comprehensive health assessment, it is not the most critical consideration when administering clonazepam. Smoking does not have the same immediate and severe interaction risks with clonazepam as alcohol does.