NCLEX-RNPsychosocial IntegrityEasy
A client presents to the emergency department reporting acute anxiety, shortness of breath, and chest pain. Medical causes have been ruled out. The client states, 'I feel like I'm going to die.' Which nursing intervention is most appropriate at this time?
- AEncourage the client to discuss recent stressors in their life.
- BAdminister an anxiolytic medication as prescribed and then leave to attend to other clients.
- CTeach the client progressive muscle relaxation techniques.
- DStay with the client and offer reassurance in a calm, quiet manner.
Show answer & explanationAnswer & explanation
Correct answer: D. Stay with the client and offer reassurance in a calm, quiet manner.
For a client experiencing an acute anxiety attack, the priority is to provide immediate comfort and safety. Staying with the client and offering calm reassurance helps ground them and reduces their sense of impending doom, which is a common symptom of panic attacks.
Why the other options are wrong
- A. Discussing stressors is part of long-term therapy but not appropriate during the acute phase of a panic attack.
- B. While anxiolytics may be prescribed, administering medication does not negate the need for a nurse's therapeutic presence; leaving immediately would be detrimental.
- C. Teaching relaxation techniques is beneficial but difficult to implement effectively during an acute panic attack.
Acute Anxiety Intervention
During an acute anxiety or panic attack, the most effective nursing intervention is to provide immediate, calm presence and reassurance to help the client feel safe and reduce the intensity of their symptoms.
- Presence is paramount.
- Calm voice and demeanor.
- Reduce stimuli if possible.
Memory trick: Presence Prevents Panic's Power.