A nurse is caring for a client diagnosed with panic disorder. Which of the following complications should the nurse monitor for in this client?

Choice A rationale:

Cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT) is a well-established non-pharmacological treatment for panic disorder. It focuses on identifying and challenging negative thought patterns and beliefs that contribute to anxiety. By addressing these cognitive distortions, clients can learn to manage their panic symptoms more effectively.

Choice B rationale:

Exposure therapy is another evidence-based approach for treating anxiety disorders. However, it involves gradual exposure to feared situations or stimuli to reduce anxiety over time. While it can benefit clients with panic disorder, it does not specifically address challenging negative thoughts as CBT does.

Choice C rationale:

Lifestyle modifications, such as regular exercise, a balanced diet, and stress reduction techniques, can indeed help reduce physical symptoms associated with panic attacks. However, they do not directly address the cognitive and emotional aspects of panic disorder like CBT does.

Choice D rationale:

Complementary therapies may have a role in managing anxiety, but they are unlikely to replace the need for medications or evidence-based psychotherapies. These therapies, such as acupuncture or herbal remedies, are typically used as adjuncts to conventional treatments rather than substitutes.

Choice A rationale:

"I should avoid medications that increase serotonin levels in the brain." While avoiding medications that increase serotonin levels is relevant in some cases, it's not a comprehensive understanding of pharmacological treatment for panic disorder. Serotonin-related medications like selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors (SSRIs) are commonly used for panic disorder treatment.

Choice B rationale:

"Antihypertensives can help reduce physical symptoms of panic attacks." This statement is not accurate. Antihypertensives are not commonly used to treat panic disorder. Medications like beta-blockers may be prescribed to manage some physical symptoms of anxiety, but they are not a primary treatment for panic disorder.

Choice C rationale:

"Antiepileptics can enhance the effects of gamma-aminobutyric acid (GABA) in the brain." This is the correct choice. Antiepileptic medications like pregabalin and gabapentin can indeed enhance the effects of GABA, an inhibitory neurotransmitter that helps reduce anxiety and panic. These medications are sometimes used to manage panic disorder symptoms.

Choice D rationale:

"Tricyclic antidepressants inhibit the reuptake of norepinephrine in the brain." While tricyclic antidepressants have been used historically to treat panic disorder, they are not considered first-line treatments due to their potential side effects and the availability of newer, safer options. The statement in Choice D is accurate but not as relevant to current treatment approaches.