A nurse is providing care to a client with panic disorder. Which of the following statements by the nurse is appropriate?

Choice A rationale:

Asking the client about coping strategies and support systems is an appropriate assessment question for a client with panic disorder. This question allows the nurse to understand how the client manages their panic attacks and identifies the resources available to them. The response can provide insights into the client's adaptive or maladaptive coping mechanisms.

Choice B rationale:

Inquiring about the frequency of panic attacks and their triggers is important, but this question may not be appropriate as the initial assessment question. It's better to first establish a rapport and gather broader information about the client's experiences before delving into specific details.

Choice C rationale:

Asking about current medications is relevant, but it might be more suitable after building rapport and discussing the client's overall situation. Focusing solely on medication can overlook other important aspects of the client's condition and coping strategies.

Choice D rationale:

Inquiring about laboratory tests is not directly relevant to the assessment of panic disorder. Panic disorder is primarily diagnosed based on clinical criteria, and laboratory tests are not typically used for diagnosis.

Choice A rationale:

Cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT) is a psychotherapy technique commonly used to help clients with panic disorder. It focuses on identifying and challenging negative thought patterns and behaviors that contribute to panic attacks. By changing these thought-behavior patterns, individuals can better manage their panic symptoms.

Choice B rationale:

Exposure therapy is another psychotherapy technique used for panic disorder. It involves gradually exposing clients to their feared situations or places in a controlled and supportive environment. Through repeated exposure, individuals can learn to tolerate and manage their anxiety, leading to a reduction in panic attacks.

Choice C rationale:

Relaxation techniques are not the primary psychotherapy technique for panic disorder. While relaxation techniques can help manage general anxiety, panic disorder often requires more targeted interventions like CBT and exposure therapy.

Choice D rationale:

Lifestyle modifications can be beneficial for managing anxiety in general, but they are not a psychotherapy technique specifically designed to help clients confront their feared situations. Psychotherapy techniques like CBT and exposure therapy are more effective in this context.