A nurse is assisting in the admission of a 30-year-old client to an inpatient mental health facility.

Exhibits

For each finding, click to specify if the finding is consistent with opioid, stimulant, or hallucinogen intoxication. Each finding may be consistent with more than 1 substance or none at all. There must be at least 1 selection in every column. There does not need to be a selection in every row.

Choice A rationale

Assisting the client with evaluating their coping mechanisms is a helpful strategy for preventing future panic attacks and managing anxiety in the long term. However, during an acute panic attack, the client's ability to think rationally and evaluate their coping skills is significantly impaired. The immediate focus should be on reducing overwhelming stimuli.

Choice B rationale

Exploring with the client what precipitates an attack is crucial for identifying triggers and developing preventative strategies. However, during an active panic attack, the client is experiencing intense anxiety and may not be able to effectively process or articulate potential triggers. This intervention is more appropriate for periods between attacks.

Choice C rationale

Minimizing environmental stimuli is a key intervention during a panic attack. Panic attacks involve a surge of intense fear and anxiety, often accompanied by sensory overload. Reducing noise, bright lights, and excessive activity in the immediate surroundings can help decrease the client's distress and promote a sense of calm and safety.

Choice D rationale

Encouraging the client to set goals is a therapeutic strategy aimed at promoting a sense of control and accomplishment, which can be beneficial for overall mental health and managing anxiety in the long term. However, during an acute panic attack, the client is likely overwhelmed and unable to focus on goal setting. The immediate priority is to reduce their acute anxiety.

Choice A rationale

Being married is generally considered a protective factor against depression due to increased social support and companionship. Research often indicates that individuals in stable marital relationships tend to have lower rates of depression compared to unmarried individuals.

Choice B rationale

Chronic illness is a significant risk factor for depression. The ongoing physical discomfort, limitations in daily activities, and psychological burden associated with chronic conditions can increase vulnerability to mood disorders. The physiological and emotional impact of managing a long-term illness contributes to this increased risk.

Choice C rationale

Alcohol use disorder is strongly associated with an increased risk of depression. Alcohol is a central nervous system depressant that can disrupt neurotransmitter balance in the brain, leading to or exacerbating depressive symptoms. Furthermore, the social and personal consequences of alcohol abuse can contribute to feelings of isolation and despair.

Choice D rationale

Early childhood trauma is a well-established risk factor for developing depression later in life. Adverse experiences during childhood can have long-lasting effects on brain development, stress response systems, and emotional regulation, increasing susceptibility to mental health disorders, including depression.

Choice E rationale

Middle-class economic status is not typically identified as a specific risk factor for depression. While socioeconomic factors can influence mental health, depression can affect individuals across all economic strata. Poverty and financial instability are more commonly associated with increased risk.