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 A
Explanation
Choice A Reason:
The statement “Autonomy” is correct. Autonomy is the ethical principle that respects an individual’s right to make their own decisions and act on their own values. By allowing clients to choose whether or not to attend group therapy, the unit manager is preserving the clients’ autonomy. This approach acknowledges the clients’ ability to make informed decisions about their own treatment and respects their personal preferences and values1. Autonomy is a fundamental principle in healthcare, emphasizing the importance of respecting patients’ rights to self-determination.
Choice B Reason:
The statement “Justice” is incorrect. Justice refers to the ethical principle of treating individuals fairly and equitably. While justice is an important consideration in healthcare, the policy of allowing clients to choose whether or not to attend group therapy is more directly related to respecting their autonomy rather than ensuring equitable treatment. Justice would be more relevant in ensuring that all clients have equal access to group therapy sessions and resources.
Choice C Reason:
The statement “Beneficence” is incorrect. Beneficence is the ethical principle that involves acting in the best interest of the client and promoting their well-being. While encouraging group therapy can be seen as an act of beneficence, the specific policy of allowing clients to choose whether or not to attend is more aligned with respecting their autonomy. Beneficence focuses on doing good for the client, whereas autonomy emphasizes the client’s right to make their own choices.
Choice D Reason:
The statement “Veracity” is incorrect. Veracity refers to the ethical principle of truthfulness and honesty in interactions with clients. While veracity is crucial in maintaining trust and transparency in the therapeutic relationship, the policy of allowing clients to choose whether or not to attend group therapy is primarily about respecting their autonomy. Veracity would be more relevant in ensuring that clients are fully informed about the benefits and potential risks of group therapy.
Correct Answer is A
Explanation
Choice A Reason:
Flumazenil is a benzodiazepine receptor antagonist used to reverse the effects of benzodiazepines like diazepam. It works by competitively inhibiting the action of benzodiazepines at the GABA receptor, thereby reversing sedation and other effects. Flumazenil is typically administered in cases of benzodiazepine overdose to counteract the sedative effects and restore normal respiratory function. However, it should be used cautiously as it can precipitate withdrawal and seizures in patients with long-term benzodiazepine use.
Choice B Reason:
Chlorpromazine is an antipsychotic medication primarily used to treat schizophrenia and other psychotic disorders. It is not indicated for the treatment of benzodiazepine overdose. Chlorpromazine works by blocking dopamine receptors in the brain, which helps to manage symptoms of psychosis but does not counteract the effects of benzodiazepines. Therefore, it would not be an appropriate choice in this scenario.
Choice C Reason:
Lithium carbonate is a mood stabilizer commonly used in the treatment of bipolar disorder. It helps to reduce the severity and frequency of mania and can also help to relieve or prevent bipolar depression. Lithium does not have any antagonistic effects on benzodiazepines and is not used in the treatment of benzodiazepine overdose. Thus, it would not be the correct medication to administer in this case.
Choice D Reason:
Methadone is a long-acting opioid used for pain management and as part of medication-assisted treatment for opioid use disorder. It works by binding to the same receptors in the brain as other opioids, helping to reduce withdrawal symptoms and cravings. Methadone does not counteract the effects of benzodiazepines and is not used in the treatment of benzodiazepine overdose. Therefore, it would not be an appropriate choice in this scenario.
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