A nurse is caring for a client with anxiety disorder who is prescribed anxiolytic medication. What is the mechanism of action of anxiolytics?

Choice A rationale:

Establishing a therapeutic relationship is essential for effective care, but it is not directly aimed at promoting coping skills and enhancing self-esteem. It's a foundational aspect of nursing care, focusing on building trust and rapport with the client.

Choice B rationale:

Teaching relaxation techniques is the correct intervention for promoting coping skills and enhancing self-esteem. Relaxation techniques, such as deep breathing, progressive muscle relaxation, and mindfulness, empower clients to manage their anxiety and build self-confidence.

Choice C rationale:

Providing a safe environment is important in a clinical setting, but it doesn't directly address promoting coping skills or enhancing self-esteem. This intervention contributes to the client's overall well-being and sense of security.

Choice D rationale:

Referring to support groups can be valuable for clients with anxiety disorders, but it doesn't directly involve teaching coping skills or enhancing self-esteem. Support groups provide social connections and a platform for shared experiences.

Choice A rationale:

Deep breathing is an appropriate relaxation technique for a client with anxiety disorder. It involves taking slow, deep breaths to activate the body's relaxation response. Deep breathing helps reduce the sympathetic nervous system's activity, leading to a calmer state. This technique is effective in lowering heart rate and blood pressure.

Choice D rationale:

Guided imagery is another suitable relaxation technique. It involves using mental visualization to create calming and peaceful images in the mind. Guided imagery can divert the client's attention away from stressors, promoting relaxation. This technique has been shown to reduce anxiety and promote a sense of well-being.

Choice B rationale:

Vigorous exercise is not typically recommended as a relaxation technique for individuals with anxiety disorder. While regular exercise has many benefits for mental health, intense exercise might actually increase physiological arousal and exacerbate anxiety symptoms.

Choice C rationale:

Hyperventilation is an inappropriate technique for relaxation. It involves rapid and shallow breathing, which can lead to an imbalance in oxygen and carbon dioxide levels, resulting in dizziness, tingling sensations, and increased anxiety. This technique is counterproductive and can trigger panic attacks.

Choice E rationale:

Critical thinking exercises are not commonly used as relaxation techniques. These exercises engage the mind in problem-solving activities, which might not be suitable for promoting immediate relaxation. Instead, the focus should be on techniques that calm the body and mind.