A nurse in an acute mental health facility observes a client having a panic attack. Which of the following interventions should the nurse implement first?
Discuss the client's feelings prior to the panic attack.
Encourage the use of positive self-talk strategies.
Instruct the client to use abdominal breathing.
Administer an antianxiety medication.
The Correct Answer is C
A. Discussing the client's feelings prior to the panic attack may be helpful during a debriefing session but is not the priority during an acute panic attack.
B. While positive self-talk strategies can be beneficial for managing anxiety, they may not be effective during the acute phase of a panic attack when the client is experiencing overwhelming symptoms.
C. Instructing the client to use abdominal breathing helps to regulate breathing patterns and reduce the intensity of the panic attack by activating the parasympathetic nervous system.
D. Administering an antianxiety medication may be necessary in severe cases of panic attacks, but it is not typically the first intervention. Non-pharmacological techniques such as breathing exercises should be attempted first.
Nursing Test Bank
Naxlex Comprehensive Predictor Exams
Related Questions
Correct Answer is A
Explanation
A. Hemoglobin (Hgb) level of 20 g/dL is significantly elevated and could indicate polycythemia, which is a common complication of COPD. Polycythemia can lead to increased blood viscosity and thrombotic events, such as stroke or myocardial infarction. Therefore, this finding requires immediate attention and further evaluation.
B. Oxygen saturation of 925% is not physiologically possible and is likely an erroneous reading. However, this extreme value is unlikely to represent a clinically significant issue. It may be a result of equipment malfunction or improper calibration.
C. A productive cough with green sputum is a common symptom in patients with COPD, often indicative of a respiratory infection. While it warrants monitoring and may require treatment, it is not as immediately concerning as other findings.
D. Chest x-ray showing hyperinflation of the lungs is a characteristic finding in COPD and is expected in patients with this condition. While it confirms the diagnosis and may indicate disease severity, it does not represent an acute change that requires immediate intervention.
Correct Answer is D
Explanation
A. Anger is characterized by feelings of hostility and frustration, which may arise as the client acknowledges the reality of their situation.
B. Depression involves feelings of sadness, hopelessness, and despair, often occurring as the client comes to terms with the impending loss or changes associated with their condition.
C. Acceptance involves acknowledging and coming to terms with the reality of the situation without resistance or denial.
D. Denial is a defense mechanism where the client refuses to acknowledge the reality of their situation, such as the need for a lengthy recovery period after open heart surgery. The client's statement reflects denial, as they are minimizing the seriousness of the surgery and its impact on their recovery.
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.