An inpatient on the psychiatric unit is having a panic attack. An appropriate nursing intervention at this time would be to:
Increase external stimuli.
Stay with the client and speak to them in a calm manner.
Allow the client to have their requested space.
Review the updated problem list with the client.
The Correct Answer is B
Choice A Reason:
Increase external stimuli.
Increasing external stimuli is not appropriate during a panic attack. Panic attacks are characterized by intense fear and anxiety, often accompanied by physical symptoms such as rapid heartbeat, sweating, and shortness of breath. Increasing external stimuli can exacerbate these symptoms and heighten the client’s distress. The goal during a panic attack is to reduce stimuli and create a calming environment to help the client regain control.
Choice B Reason:
Stay with the client and speak to them in a calm manner.
This is the correct response. Staying with the client and speaking to them in a calm manner provides reassurance and helps to ground them during the panic attack. The presence of a calm and supportive nurse can help reduce the client’s anxiety and provide a sense of safety. This approach aligns with therapeutic communication techniques and is effective in managing acute anxiety episodes.
Choice C Reason:
Allow the client to have their requested space.
While it is important to respect a client’s need for space, leaving them alone during a panic attack may not be the best approach. Clients experiencing panic attacks may feel overwhelmed and frightened, and the presence of a supportive nurse can help them feel safer and more secure. It is important to balance the client’s need for space with the need for support and reassurance.
Choice D Reason:
Review the updated problem list with the client.
Reviewing the updated problem list is not appropriate during a panic attack. This action requires cognitive engagement and focus, which the client may not be capable of during an acute anxiety episode. The priority during a panic attack is to help the client calm down and manage their immediate symptoms, not to discuss or review problems.
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Nursing Test Bank
Naxlex Comprehensive Predictor Exams
Related Questions
Correct Answer is C
Explanation
Choice A Reason:
Administer the medication with food.
Administering clonazepam with food can help reduce gastrointestinal discomfort, but it is not the most critical consideration. While it is beneficial to minimize potential side effects like nausea, it does not address the primary safety concerns associated with clonazepam use.
Choice B Reason:
Administer the medication to the client at night to avoid daytime sedation.
Administering clonazepam at night can help avoid daytime sedation, which is a common side effect of benzodiazepines. However, this is not the most critical safety concern. While managing sedation is important, it does not address the potential for more serious interactions and risks.
Choice C Reason:
Encourage the client to avoid drinking alcohol when taking this medication.
This is the correct response. Alcohol can significantly increase the sedative effects of clonazepam, leading to dangerous levels of sedation, respiratory depression, and even death. It is crucial to educate clients about the risks of combining alcohol with benzodiazepines to prevent potentially life-threatening interactions.
Choice D Reason:
Assess for history of smoking.
While assessing for a history of smoking is part of a comprehensive health assessment, it is not the most critical consideration when administering clonazepam. Smoking does not have the same immediate and severe interaction risks with clonazepam as alcohol does.
Correct Answer is C
Explanation
The correct answer is c.
Choice A Reason:
The statement “I am glad I’m getting out of here. I shouldn’t be here anyway.” indicates a lack of insight into the need for treatment and does not demonstrate readiness for discharge. Clients who are ready for discharge typically acknowledge their condition and the importance of ongoing care. This statement suggests denial or minimization of the issues that led to hospitalization, which can be a barrier to successful discharge and continued recovery1.
Choice B Reason:
The statement “I know I’m ready to go. I’ve got everything under control.” can be misleading. While it may seem positive, it lacks specific details about the client’s discharge plan and follow-up care. Readiness for discharge involves more than just feeling ready; it requires a concrete plan for managing medications, follow-up appointments, and support systems. Without these details, the statement does not fully indicate readiness for discharge.
Choice C Reason:
The statement “I have a list of my medications and have made an appointment with my doctor.” is correct. This statement demonstrates that the client has a clear understanding of their medication regimen and has taken proactive steps to ensure continuity of care after discharge. Having a follow-up appointment scheduled is a critical component of discharge planning, as it helps ensure that the client will continue to receive necessary support and monitoring. This level of preparation indicates that the client is ready for discharge.
Choice D Reason:
The statement “I just can’t get rid of these thoughts about dying.” is a serious concern and indicates that the client is not ready for discharge. Persistent thoughts of dying or suicidal ideation require immediate attention and intervention. Discharging a client with these thoughts would be unsafe and could lead to severe consequences. The client needs further evaluation and treatment to address these thoughts before being considered for discharge.
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