A nurse is caring for a patient with social anxiety disorder. The nurse understands that beta-blockers may be used as an adjunct to antidepressants for the treatment of social anxiety disorder. The nurse further explains that beta-blockers:

Choice A rationale:

Diazepam - Diazepam is a benzodiazepine commonly used to treat anxiety disorders, but it's not typically considered a first-line agent for panic disorder due to concerns about dependence and withdrawal.

Choice B rationale:

Buspirone - This is the correct answer. Buspirone is often used as a first-line agent for the treatment of panic disorder. It is a non-benzodiazepine anxiolytic that works by interacting with serotonin and dopamine receptors, providing anxiolytic effects without the risk of significant sedation or dependence.

Choice C rationale:

Fluoxetine - Fluoxetine is an SSRI commonly used to treat depression and some anxiety disorders, including panic disorder. However, it might not be the first-line choice due to its delayed onset of action compared to other treatments.

Choice D rationale:

Pregabalin - Pregabalin is an anticonvulsant used to treat various conditions, including neuropathic pain and generalized anxiety disorder. It may be used in the treatment of panic disorder in some cases, but it's not typically considered a first-line option.

Choice E rationale:

Propranolol - Propranolol is a beta-blocker that can help manage physical symptoms of anxiety, such as rapid heartbeat and tremors. While it may be used adjunctively in panic disorder treatment, it's not a first-line choice for addressing the core symptoms of panic disorder.

Choice A rationale:

"I feel like something bad is going to happen." This statement is similar to the correct answer, but it lacks the specific phrase "impending doom," which is a hallmark description in anxiety-related disorders.

Choice B rationale:

"My heart is racing, and I can't catch my breath." This statement focuses on physiological symptoms and doesn't capture the broader sense of anxiety and apprehension that the patient is expressing.

Choice C rationale:

"I feel anxious and restless." While this choice captures the patient's emotional state, it doesn't include the crucial phrase "impending doom," which is a common and specific expression of anxiety.

Choice D rationale:

"I have a feeling of impending doom." This statement precisely captures the patient's description of their emotions and physical sensations, which is characteristic of anxiety and panic disorders. It reflects the patient's perception of a potential catastrophe about to occur.