A mental health nurse is providing preventive care for a group of clients in the community. Which of the following actions by the nurse demonstrates a secondary prevention strategy?

A. “ECT contraindicated in clients who have psychotic symptoms.”: This statement is incorrect. ECT can be used to treat various mental health conditions, including severe depression with psychotic features. It is not contraindicated solely based on the presence of psychotic symptoms.

B. "ECT is delivered through electrodes attached to the head.”: This statement is accurate. Electroconvulsive therapy (ECT) involves the delivery of electrical currents to the brain through electrodes placed on the scalp. These electrodes are positioned to target specific areas of the brain.

C. “ECT cannot be administered to clients who have suicide ideation”: This statement is incorrect. ECT can be considered as a treatment option for individuals with severe depression, including those with suicidal ideation or behavior. It can be effective in rapidly alleviating symptoms and reducing suicide risk in some cases.

D. “ECT is conducted under regional anesthesia.”: This statement is incorrect. Electroconvulsive therapy (ECT) is typically performed under general anesthesia to ensure the client's comfort and safety during the procedure. Regional anesthesia is not commonly used for ECT.

A. Encourage the client to attend group therapy sessions: While group therapy can be beneficial for some individuals with panic disorder by providing support and opportunities for learning coping strategies, it may not be appropriate for all clients. Some clients may feel overwhelmed or anxious in group settings, especially during panic attacks. The nurse should assess the client's readiness and comfort level with group therapy and individualize the treatment plan accordingly.

B. Allow the client to choose scheduled daily activities: Providing the client with a sense of control and autonomy over their daily activities can be helpful in managing anxiety and panic symptoms. However, this intervention alone may not address the specific cognitive and behavioral aspects of panic disorder. It is important to incorporate other evidence-based interventions, such as cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT) techniques, into the treatment plan to address the underlying causes of panic attacks.

C. Use simple words to describe procedures to the client: Individuals with panic disorder may experience difficulty processing information and focusing during panic attacks or periods of heightened anxiety. Using simple and clear language to describe procedures can help reduce confusion and alleviate anxiety in these situations. It is important to provide information in a calm and reassuring manner to facilitate understanding and cooperation.

D. Avoid discussing topics that can trigger a panic attack: While it is important to be mindful of potential triggers for panic attacks, avoiding all discussion of triggering topics may not be practical or helpful in the long term. Instead, the nurse should work collaboratively with the client to identify triggers and develop coping strategies to manage them effectively. Avoidance alone may reinforce avoidance behaviors and perpetuate anxiety.