Review Panic Disorder

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Panic Disorder

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Question 1:

A nurse is providing education to a client diagnosed with panic disorder. Which of the following statements by the client indicates an understanding of the disorder?

A. "I think my panic attacks are caused by a specific substance I'm using.". B. "I avoid situations that might trigger my panic attacks.". C. "I don't worry about having more panic attacks.". D. "I believe my panic attacks are a result of a physical health problem.".

Answer and Explanation

Choice A:

The statement "I think my panic attacks are caused by a specific substance I'm using" suggests a possible link between substance use and panic attacks, which is not a typical characteristic of panic disorder. Panic disorder is primarily characterized by recurrent and unexpected panic attacks, not necessarily triggered by specific substances.

Choice B:

The statement "I avoid situations that might trigger my panic attacks" reflects an understanding of the disorder. People with panic disorder often develop avoidance behaviors to prevent or minimize the occurrence of panic attacks. Avoidance of triggers is a common coping mechanism used to manage the fear associated with panic attacks.

Choice C:

The statement "I don't worry about having more panic attacks" contradicts the typical experience of individuals with panic disorder. People with panic disorder often have heightened worry and fear about experiencing more panic attacks, which contributes to the cycle of anxiety.

Choice D:

The statement "I believe my panic attacks are a result of a physical health problem" suggests a misunderstanding of panic disorder. While panic attacks can manifest with physical symptoms, they are primarily caused by psychological factors, such as anxiety and fear, rather than solely by physical health problems.

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Question 2:

A nurse is assessing a client with panic disorder. Which of the following symptoms should the nurse expect to find during a panic attack? Select all that apply.

A. Palpitations. B. Numbness and tingling. C. Increased appetite. D. Fear of losing control. E. Muscle weakness.

Answer and Explanation

Choice A:

Palpitations, or a racing heart, are a common symptom of panic attacks. The body's "fight or flight" response during a panic attack can lead to rapid heart rate and sensations of palpitations.

Choice B:

Numbness and tingling sensations, often referred to as paresthesias, can occur during a panic attack. These sensations are a result of the body's physiological response to stress, leading to altered sensory perceptions.

Choice C:

Increased appetite is not typically associated with panic attacks. Panic attacks are more commonly associated with gastrointestinal symptoms such as nausea or stomach discomfort rather than an increased appetite.

Choice D:

Fear of losing control is a characteristic symptom of panic attacks. Individuals with panic disorder often describe feeling as though they are losing control over their thoughts, emotions, or even their physical actions during an attack.

Choice E:

Muscle weakness can be experienced during a panic attack due to the release of stress hormones and the physiological changes that accompany the fight-or-flight response. This weakness can affect various muscle groups.

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Question 3:

A client with panic disorder expresses concern about having another panic attack. Which of the following statements by the client indicates a need for further education?

A. "I don't think I'll ever be able to control my panic attacks.". B. "I'm worried about the consequences of having another panic attack.". C. "I feel confident that I can prevent future panic attacks.". D. "I've learned some relaxation techniques to help manage my anxiety.".

Answer and Explanation

Choice A:

The statement "I don't think I'll ever be able to control my panic attacks" indicates a negative and hopeless outlook. This perspective can contribute to increased anxiety and difficulty in managing panic attacks. Education is needed to address and challenge such negative beliefs.

Choice B:

The statement "I'm worried about the consequences of having another panic attack" reflects a valid concern. People with panic disorder often worry about the impact of panic attacks on their daily lives and functioning.

Choice C:

The statement "I feel confident that I can prevent future panic attacks" demonstrates an understanding of coping strategies and confidence in managing panic attacks. This is a positive sign that the client is actively engaged in their treatment and recovery.

Choice D:

The statement "I've learned some relaxation techniques to help manage my anxiety" indicates that the client has acquired useful tools to manage anxiety. This suggests that the client is actively seeking ways to cope with panic attacks, which is a positive indicator.

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Question 4:

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

A. "You should avoid situations that might trigger your panic attacks.". B. "Having panic attacks means there's something physically wrong with you.". C. "You should try to ignore your panic attacks and distract yourself.". D. "It's common for people with panic disorder to also experience depression.".

Answer and Explanation

Choice A:

Advising the client to avoid triggering situations oversimplifies the management of panic disorder. Exposure therapy is a common treatment, gradually confronting feared situations to reduce anxiety.

Choice B:

This choice reflects an appropriate understanding of panic disorder. Panic attacks are primarily driven by psychological factors, and reassuring the client that there's nothing physically wrong helps reduce unnecessary health concerns.

Choice C:

Encouraging the client to ignore panic attacks isn't therapeutic. Acknowledging and learning to manage the attacks, rather than suppressing them, is essential.

Choice D:

While comorbidity exists, directly associating panic disorder with depression can be misleading. Not all individuals with panic disorder experience depression.

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Question 5:

A nurse is caring for a client diagnosed with panic disorder. Which of the following complications should the nurse monitor for in this client?

A. Substance abuse. B. Hypertension. C. Diabetes. D. Osteoporosis.

Answer and Explanation

Choice A:

Substance abuse can be a significant complication of panic disorder. Individuals might turn to drugs or alcohol in attempts to self-medicate or alleviate symptoms.

Choice B:

Hypertension isn't a primary complication of panic disorder. Panic attacks can lead to transient increases in blood pressure, but chronic hypertension isn't a well-documented outcome.

Choice C:

Diabetes and panic disorder aren't directly linked. However, chronic stress and anxiety could potentially influence blood sugar levels in those predisposed to diabetes.

Choice D:

Osteoporosis isn't a known complication of panic disorder. There's no physiological connection between panic attacks and bone health.

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Question 6:

Which of the following is a possible risk factor for panic disorder?

A. Family history of panic disorder. B. High blood pressure. C. Recent weight loss. D. Allergies.

Answer and Explanation

Choice A:

Family history of panic disorder is a recognized risk factor, suggesting a genetic predisposition. Anxiety disorders often have a hereditary component.

Choice B:

High blood pressure might not directly lead to panic disorder. However, it could contribute to the overall stress burden on the individual.

Choice C:

Recent weight loss isn't typically associated with an increased risk of panic disorder. Other factors are more relevant to its development.

Choice D:

Allergies aren't linked to an increased risk of panic disorder. This choice lacks a plausible biological or psychological connection.

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Question 7:

A client with panic disorder is experiencing anticipatory anxiety. Which of the following statements by the client indicates an understanding of anticipatory anxiety?

A. "I'm not worried about having another panic attack.". B. "I'm afraid of being in situations where escape might be difficult.". C. "I don't think my panic attacks are related to my thought patterns.". D. "I believe my panic attacks are caused by a substance I'm using.".

Answer and Explanation

Choice A:

The statement "I'm not worried about having another panic attack" indicates a lack of understanding of anticipatory anxiety. Anticipatory anxiety is characterized by the fear of experiencing future panic attacks, so this statement contradicts that concept.

Choice B:

This choice is correct because it reflects an accurate understanding of anticipatory anxiety. Anticipatory anxiety is the fear of being in situations or places where escape might be challenging or embarrassing in the event of a panic attack. This fear often leads to avoidance behavior and can worsen the overall anxiety.

Choice C:

The statement "I don't think my panic attacks are related to my thought patterns" suggests a misunderstanding of the connection between thoughts and panic attacks. In reality, panic attacks are often triggered by anxious thoughts and thought patterns.

Choice D:

The statement "I believe my panic attacks are caused by a substance I'm using" indicates a different perspective on the origin of panic attacks. While substance use can contribute to anxiety or trigger panic attacks in some cases, anticipatory anxiety specifically refers to the fear of future panic attacks, not their immediate causes.

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Question 8:

A nurse is assessing a client with panic disorder. Which of the following interventions should the nurse prioritize?

A. Teach relaxation techniques. B. Administer antianxiety medication. C. Encourage socialization. D. Monitor vital signs regularly.

Answer and Explanation

Choice A:

Teaching relaxation techniques is a priority intervention for clients with panic disorder. Relaxation techniques, such as deep breathing, progressive muscle relaxation, and mindfulness, can help manage anxiety symptoms and reduce the frequency and intensity of panic attacks. These techniques empower clients to regain a sense of control over their anxiety.

Choice B:

Administering antianxiety medication can be a helpful intervention, but it should not be prioritized over non-pharmacological approaches like teaching relaxation techniques. Medications may have side effects and are typically considered after other strategies have been explored.

Choice C:

Encouraging socialization is important for overall mental health, but it may not directly address the immediate needs of a client experiencing panic disorder. Managing panic attacks and providing coping mechanisms should take precedence during the assessment.

Choice D:

Monitoring vital signs regularly is important, but it is not the highest priority for a client with panic disorder. Addressing anxiety symptoms and providing appropriate interventions to manage panic attacks should come first.

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Question 9:

A nurse is conducting a nursing assessment for a client with panic disorder. Which data should the nurse collect during the assessment?

A. The client's vital signs, weight, height, and BMI. B. The client's support system, self-esteem, and coping strategies. C. The client's medical history, medication use, and family history. D. The client's laboratory tests and diagnostic tools.

Answer and Explanation

Choice A:

Collecting vital signs, weight, height, and BMI is important for a general health assessment, but these measurements are not the primary focus when assessing a client with panic disorder.

Choice B:

Gathering information about the client's support system, self-esteem, and coping strategies is relevant for understanding the client's overall well-being, but it may not provide as much insight into the specific factors contributing to panic disorder.

Choice C:

This choice is correct because it addresses essential aspects of the assessment for a client with panic disorder. Understanding the client's medical history can reveal any underlying health conditions that might contribute to anxiety. Knowledge of medication use is crucial to identify potential interactions or side effects that could exacerbate anxiety. Family history provides insight into genetic predispositions and potential risk factors.

Choice D:

Collecting laboratory tests and diagnostic tools might be necessary for ruling out other medical conditions that could mimic anxiety symptoms, but these should be secondary to gathering information about medical history, medication use, and family history when assessing a client with panic disorder.

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Question 10:

A nurse is providing interventions for a client with panic disorder. Which interventions should the nurse include in the plan of care? (Select all that apply)

A. Provide a safe and calm environment for the client during a panic attack. B. Use therapeutic communication skills to establish rapport and trust with the client. C. Educate the client about panic disorder and its treatment options. D. Encourage the client to participate in cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT) E. Refer the client to self-help groups for peer support and education.

Answer and Explanation

Choice A:

Providing a safe and calm environment for the client during a panic attack is crucial to help minimize distress and prevent harm. Panic attacks can lead to heightened anxiety and fear, and creating a safe space can help the client feel secure. This intervention aids in reducing the overall intensity and duration of the panic attack.

Choice B:

Using therapeutic communication skills to establish rapport and trust with the client is essential in managing panic disorder. By employing active listening, empathy, and non-judgmental responses, the nurse can create a supportive environment. Building a therapeutic relationship enhances the client's willingness to communicate, share their experiences, and adhere to the treatment plan.

Choice C:

Educating the client about panic disorder and its treatment options is important, but it might be overwhelming during a panic attack. Providing education can be more effective when the client is relatively stable and receptive. The immediate focus during a panic attack should be on providing comfort and support.

Choice D:

Encouraging the client to participate in cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT) is a valuable intervention for panic disorder. However, suggesting this during a panic attack might not be appropriate, as the client's focus and ability to engage in a discussion could be compromised. It's better to introduce the idea of CBT when the client is in a more receptive state.

Choice E:

Referring the client to self-help groups for peer support and education is also a beneficial intervention. However, during a panic attack, the client may not be open to the idea of group involvement. This recommendation is better suited for a calmer moment when the client can consider it more rationally.

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Question 11:

A nurse is assessing a client with panic disorder. Which statement by the nurse would be appropriate during the assessment?

A. "Tell me about your coping strategies and support system.". B. "How often do you experience panic attacks and what triggers them?". C. "What medications are you currently taking for your panic disorder?". D. "Have you ever had any laboratory tests done for your panic disorder?".

Answer and Explanation

Choice A:

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:

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:

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:

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.

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Question 12:

A nurse is formulating nursing diagnoses for a client with panic disorder. Which nursing diagnosis would be appropriate for this client?

A. Anxiety related to perceived threats or loss of control. B. Impaired social interaction related to avoidance behavior or low self-esteem. C. Risk for self-directed violence related to hopelessness or depression. D. Knowledge deficit related to panic disorder and its treatment.

Answer and Explanation

Choice A:

The nursing diagnosis "Anxiety related to perceived threats or loss of control" is appropriate for a client with panic disorder. Panic disorder is characterized by recurrent and unexpected panic attacks, leading to heightened anxiety and apprehension. The client often perceives a loss of control during these attacks, making this diagnosis suitable.

Choice B:

"Impaired social interaction related to avoidance behavior or low self-esteem" is not the most appropriate diagnosis for panic disorder. While social interaction might be affected, the core feature of panic disorder is the occurrence of panic attacks. The chosen diagnosis does not directly address this aspect.

Choice C:

"Risk for self-directed violence related to hopelessness or depression" is not the most fitting diagnosis for panic disorder. Panic attacks typically involve intense anxiety and fear rather than depression or hopelessness, which are more associated with mood disorders.

Choice D:

"Knowledge deficit related to panic disorder and its treatment" is not the best diagnosis for a client with panic disorder. While education about the disorder is important, panic disorder is primarily characterized by the presence of panic attacks and related symptoms, which should take precedence in the nursing diagnosis.

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Question 13:

A nurse is evaluating the outcomes for a client with panic disorder. Which outcome would indicate effective management of panic disorder?

A. The client reports a decrease in the frequency and severity of panic attacks. B. The client engages in social activities and maintains supportive relationships. C. The client demonstrates effective coping skills and positive self-talk. D. The client adheres to the prescribed treatment regimen and follows up with appointments.

Answer and Explanation

Choice A:

If the client reports a decrease in the frequency and severity of panic attacks, it indicates effective management of panic disorder. This outcome suggests that the treatment interventions are successfully reducing the occurrence and intensity of panic attacks, leading to improved overall well-being.

Choice B:

While engaging in social activities and maintaining supportive relationships (choice B) is important for the client's mental health, it doesn't directly indicate the effectiveness of panic disorder management. The client might be socially active but still experiencing panic attacks.

Choice C:

Demonstrating effective coping skills and positive self-talk (choice C) is certainly a positive outcome. However, this alone might not fully reflect the successful management of panic disorder. Effective coping skills are a part of the management plan, but the reduction in panic attack frequency is a more specific indicator of treatment effectiveness.

Choice D:

Adhering to the prescribed treatment regimen and following up with appointments (choice D) is crucial for any medical condition, including panic disorder. However, this outcome doesn't directly measure the reduction in panic attacks, which is a more specific measure of successful management.

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Question 14:

A nurse is conducting a nursing assessment for a client with panic disorder. Which data should the nurse collect during the assessment?

Answer and Explanation

Choice A:

Monitoring vital signs, weight, height, and BMI (choice A) is relevant for a general health assessment, but it is not specific to evaluating a client with panic disorder.

Choice B:

Assessing the client's support system, self-esteem, and coping strategies (choice B) is important for understanding the client's psychosocial well-being, but it doesn't directly provide information about their panic disorder and its management.

Choice C:

Collecting the client's medical history, medication use, and family history (choice C) is crucial for assessing the context of the panic disorder. Medical history helps identify any contributing factors, medication use informs about the current treatment, and family history might reveal a genetic predisposition or relevant psychosocial factors.

Choice D:

Requesting laboratory tests and diagnostic tools (choice D) can be useful in ruling out medical conditions that may mimic panic disorder symptoms, but they are not the primary focus of a panic disorder assessment.

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Question 15:

A nurse is providing interventions for a client with panic disorder. Which interventions should the nurse include in the plan of care? (Select all that apply)

Answer and Explanation

Choice A:

Providing a safe and calm environment during a panic attack (choice A) is crucial to help the client feel secure and reduce the intensity of the attack.

Choice B:

Using therapeutic communication skills (choice B) is essential to establish rapport and trust with the client, creating a foundation for effective therapeutic interventions.

Choice C:

Educating the client about panic disorder and its treatment options (choice C) empowers them to actively participate in their treatment and make informed decisions.

Choice D:

Encouraging the client to participate in cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT) (choice D) is a evidence-based approach for managing panic disorder. CBT helps the client develop coping strategies and change maladaptive thought patterns.

Choice E:

Referring the client to self-help groups for peer support and education (choice E) offers additional resources and insights from individuals who have experienced similar challenges, fostering a sense of community and reducing isolation.

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Question 16:

A nurse is assessing a client with panic disorder who is prescribed benzodiazepines. Which statement by the client indicates a need for further education?

A. "I should take this medication as needed for panic attacks.". B. "I should avoid alcohol while taking this medication.". C. "I may experience drowsiness and dizziness as side effects.". D. "I can stop taking this medication abruptly if I no longer have panic attacks.".

Answer and Explanation

Choice A:

Taking benzodiazepines as needed for panic attacks is an incorrect statement. Benzodiazepines are generally not intended for "as-needed" use due to the risk of dependence and withdrawal. They are typically prescribed on a scheduled basis to provide consistent anxiety relief.

Choice B:

Avoiding alcohol while taking benzodiazepines is important due to potential interactions between alcohol and the medication. Both substances can have central nervous system depressant effects, which can lead to increased drowsiness, impaired coordination, and cognitive deficits.

Choice C:

Experiencing drowsiness and dizziness are common side effects of benzodiazepines. Educating the client about these potential side effects is necessary to promote safety and to avoid engaging in activities that require alertness while taking the medication.

Choice D:

This statement indicates a need for further education. Abruptly stopping benzodiazepines can lead to withdrawal symptoms, which may include increased anxiety, irritability, insomnia, and even seizures. Benzodiazepines should be tapered off gradually under medical supervision.

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Question 17:

A nurse is providing education to a client with panic disorder about non-pharmacological treatment options. Which statement by the client indicates understanding of the teaching?

A. "Cognitive-behavioral therapy can help me challenge negative thoughts.". B. "Exposure therapy can provide additional benefits for my anxiety and mood.". C. "Lifestyle modifications can reduce physical symptoms of panic attacks.". D. "Complementary therapies can replace the need for medications.".

Answer and Explanation

Choice A:

Cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT) is a well-established non-pharmacological treatment for panic disorder. It focuses on identifying and challenging negative thought patterns and beliefs that contribute to anxiety. By addressing these cognitive distortions, clients can learn to manage their panic symptoms more effectively.

Choice B:

Exposure therapy is another evidence-based approach for treating anxiety disorders. However, it involves gradual exposure to feared situations or stimuli to reduce anxiety over time. While it can benefit clients with panic disorder, it does not specifically address challenging negative thoughts as CBT does.

Choice C:

Lifestyle modifications, such as regular exercise, a balanced diet, and stress reduction techniques, can indeed help reduce physical symptoms associated with panic attacks. However, they do not directly address the cognitive and emotional aspects of panic disorder like CBT does.

Choice D:

Complementary therapies may have a role in managing anxiety, but they are unlikely to replace the need for medications or evidence-based psychotherapies. These therapies, such as acupuncture or herbal remedies, are typically used as adjuncts to conventional treatments rather than substitutes.

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Question 18:

A nurse is caring for a client with panic disorder. Which statement accurately describes panic disorder?

A. Panic disorder is a type of anxiety disorder that causes intense fear and discomfort. B. Panic disorder is a type of depression that leads to social isolation. C. Panic disorder is a type of substance abuse that is influenced by biological factors. D. Panic disorder is a physical health problem that can be diagnosed using the PDSS.

Answer and Explanation

Choice A:

This statement accurately describes panic disorder. It is an anxiety disorder characterized by recurrent and unexpected panic attacks—sudden episodes of intense fear or discomfort accompanied by physical and cognitive symptoms. These attacks can lead to significant distress and avoidance behaviors.

Choice B:

Panic disorder is not a type of depression; it is a separate anxiety disorder. While there can be co-occurrence of depression and anxiety disorders, they have distinct diagnostic criteria and features.

Choice C:

Panic disorder is not related to substance abuse, nor is it influenced by biological factors that contribute to substance use disorders. It is primarily a psychological condition related to anxiety.

Choice D:

The PDSS (Panic Disorder Severity Scale) is a tool used to assess the severity of panic disorder symptoms, not to diagnose the disorder itself. A diagnosis of panic disorder is based on clinical criteria outlined in the Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders (DSM-5)

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Question 19:

Which class of medications is commonly used for the pharmacological treatment of panic disorder?

A. Beta-blockers. B. Anticonvulsants. C. Selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors (SSRIs) D. Tricyclic antidepressants (TCAs)

Answer and Explanation

Choice A:

Beta-blockers are not commonly used for the pharmacological treatment of panic disorder. While they are used for conditions like hypertension and certain heart conditions, they are not the primary choice for panic disorder. Panic disorder primarily involves disturbances in brain neurotransmitters, which beta-blockers do not directly target.

Choice B:

Anticonvulsants are not the primary choice for treating panic disorder. While they may be used for other conditions such as epilepsy or bipolar disorder, their effectiveness in treating panic disorder is limited compared to other classes of medications like SSRIs.

Choice C:

Selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors (SSRIs) are commonly used for the pharmacological treatment of panic disorder. Panic disorder often involves imbalances in serotonin, a neurotransmitter that plays a crucial role in mood regulation. SSRIs help increase serotonin levels in the brain by blocking its reuptake, thereby alleviating symptoms of panic and anxiety.

Choice D:

Tricyclic antidepressants (TCAs) are sometimes used for panic disorder, but they are not the first-line treatment due to their potential side effects and safety concerns. SSRIs have largely replaced TCAs as the preferred choice due to their better tolerability and safety profile.

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Question 20:

Which psychotherapy technique can help clients with panic disorder gradually confront their feared situations or places?

A. Cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT) B. Exposure therapy. C. Relaxation techniques. D. Lifestyle modifications.

Answer and Explanation

Choice A:

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:

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:

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:

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.

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Question 21:

Which statement accurately describes the nursing care for panic disorder?

A. Assessing and diagnosing the client's physical health problems. B. Intervening and evaluating the client's social support and self-esteem. C. Monitoring for signs of serotonin syndrome. D. Educating the client on the potential side effects of benzodiazepines.

Answer and Explanation

Choice A:

Assessing and diagnosing the client's physical health problems is important, but it does not accurately describe the nursing care for panic disorder. Panic disorder primarily involves psychological and emotional symptoms, so addressing the client's mental health needs takes precedence.

Choice B:

Intervening and evaluating the client's social support and self-esteem accurately describe nursing care for panic disorder. Social support and self-esteem play significant roles in a client's ability to cope with and manage panic disorder. Nurses can provide interventions to enhance these factors, which can contribute to better outcomes.

Choice C:

Monitoring for signs of serotonin syndrome is important when a client is taking certain medications, particularly serotonergic antidepressants. However, it is not a specific concern in panic disorder nursing care unless the client is on medication that could potentially lead to serotonin syndrome.

Choice D:

Educating the client on the potential side effects of benzodiazepines is relevant, but it is not the most accurate description of nursing care for panic disorder. Nursing care goes beyond medication education and involves a comprehensive approach to addressing the client's emotional, psychological, and social needs. Phobias

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Question 22:

A nurse is providing education to a client with panic disorder about the pharmacological treatment options. Which statement by the client indicates understanding of the teaching?

A. "I should avoid medications that increase serotonin levels in the brain.” B. "Antihypertensives can help reduce physical symptoms of panic attacks.” C. "Antiepileptics can enhance the effects of gamma-aminobutyric acid (GABA) in the brain.” D. "Tricyclic antidepressants inhibit the reuptake of norepinephrine in the brain.”

Answer and Explanation

Choice A:

"I should avoid medications that increase serotonin levels in the brain." While avoiding medications that increase serotonin levels is relevant in some cases, it's not a comprehensive understanding of pharmacological treatment for panic disorder. Serotonin-related medications like selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors (SSRIs) are commonly used for panic disorder treatment.

Choice B:

"Antihypertensives can help reduce physical symptoms of panic attacks." This statement is not accurate. Antihypertensives are not commonly used to treat panic disorder. Medications like beta-blockers may be prescribed to manage some physical symptoms of anxiety, but they are not a primary treatment for panic disorder.

Choice C:

"Antiepileptics can enhance the effects of gamma-aminobutyric acid (GABA) in the brain." This is the correct choice. Antiepileptic medications like pregabalin and gabapentin can indeed enhance the effects of GABA, an inhibitory neurotransmitter that helps reduce anxiety and panic. These medications are sometimes used to manage panic disorder symptoms.

Choice D:

"Tricyclic antidepressants inhibit the reuptake of norepinephrine in the brain." While tricyclic antidepressants have been used historically to treat panic disorder, they are not considered first-line treatments due to their potential side effects and the availability of newer, safer options. The statement in Choice D is accurate but not as relevant to current treatment approaches.

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Question 23:

A nurse is caring for a client with panic disorder who is prescribed pharmacological treatment. Which interventions should the nurse include in the plan of care? Select all that apply.

A. Encourage regular exercise and a healthy diet. B. Teach deep breathing and progressive muscle relaxation techniques. C. Assist with gradually confronting feared situations or places. D. Monitor for signs of serotonin syndrome. E. Educate on the potential side effects of benzodiazepines.

Answer and Explanation

Choice A:

Encourage regular exercise and a healthy diet. Regular exercise and a healthy diet contribute to overall well-being and can have a positive impact on managing anxiety and panic disorder. Exercise releases endorphins, which are natural mood lifters, and a balanced diet supports physical and mental health.

Choice B:

Teach deep breathing and progressive muscle relaxation techniques. Deep breathing and progressive muscle relaxation are evidence-based relaxation techniques that can help manage anxiety and panic symptoms. They promote relaxation and help clients cope with the physical sensations of panic.

Choice C:

Assist with gradually confronting feared situations or places. This approach, known as exposure therapy, is a common component of cognitive-behavioral therapy for panic disorder. Gradual exposure to feared situations or places can help desensitize the client to triggers and reduce the intensity of panic reactions.

Choice D:

Monitor for signs of serotonin syndrome. Serotonin syndrome is a potentially serious condition that can result from interactions between certain medications that affect serotonin levels. Monitoring for signs such as agitation, confusion, rapid heart rate, and high blood pressure is crucial when using medications that impact serotonin.

Choice E:

Educate on the potential side effects of benzodiazepines. Benzodiazepines are sometimes prescribed for short-term relief of acute anxiety or panic symptoms, but they can be habit-forming and have potential side effects like sedation, dizziness, and cognitive impairment. Educating the client about these potential effects is important for informed decision-making.

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Question 24:

A nurse is assessing a client with panic disorder. Which statement by the nurse would be appropriate during the assessment?

A. "Tell me about your coping strategies and support system.” B. "How often do you experience panic attacks and what triggers them?” C. "What medications are you currently taking for your panic disorder?” D. "Have you ever had any laboratory tests done for your panic disorder?” E. Educate on the potential side effects of benzodiazepines.

Answer and Explanation

Choice A:

"Tell me about your coping strategies and support system." This choice may not be the most appropriate initial question because it focuses on coping strategies and support systems rather than gathering information about the frequency and triggers of panic attacks. While coping strategies and support systems are important, understanding the pattern of panic attacks is crucial for assessment and planning.

Choice B:

"How often do you experience panic attacks and what triggers them?" This is the correct choice. It directly addresses the primary concerns related to panic disorder by inquiring about the frequency of panic attacks and their triggers. This information is essential for developing a comprehensive understanding of the client's condition and tailoring an effective treatment plan.

Choice C:

"What medications are you currently taking for your panic disorder?" While inquiring about medication use is important, this question should come after understanding the frequency and triggers of panic attacks. Knowing about medications alone does not provide a holistic picture of the client's experience with panic disorder.

Choice D:

"Have you ever had any laboratory tests done for your panic disorder?" This question is not directly relevant to the assessment of panic disorder. Panic disorder is primarily diagnosed based on clinical symptoms and criteria outlined in diagnostic manuals like the DSM-5. Laboratory tests are not routinely used for diagnosing panic disorder, so this question might not yield pertinent information for assessment.

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Panic Disorder

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