The nurse is caring for a client who is experiencing a panic attack.
Which priority action should the nurse take?
The nurse is caring for a client who is experiencing a panic attack.
Which priority action should the nurse take?
A. Use short, simple sentences
[7%]
B. Reframe the situation in positive ways
[4%]
C. Remain with the client
[86%]
D. Encourage the client to discuss preceding events
[3%]
Statistics
Subject/Lesson
Subject
Mental Health
Lesson
Mental Health
Client Need
Test Plan
Psychosocial Integrity
Related Topic
Crisis Intervention
Item Type
Item Type
Application
Explanation
Choice C is correct. The immediate priority during a panic attack is client safety and emotional support. Remaining with the client provides reassurance, helps reduce feelings of isolation or loss of control, and allows the nurse to assess and intervene appropriately.
Choice A is incorrect. While this is an appropriate strategy once communication is established, it is not the priority. The first action must be to provide immediate presence and reassurance, not verbal instruction.
Choice B is incorrect. This cognitive intervention is inappropriate during the acute phase of panic, when the client is likely unable to process reframing due to overwhelming fear or anxiety. This is an intervention after the panic attack.
Choice D is incorrect. Exploring triggers is part of long-term therapeutic strategies, but not appropriate during the acute stage of a panic attack, when cognitive processing is impaired.
Related Videos
2 Key Topics
SSRIs
32.1 Psychopharmacology (Medications & Treatments)
Additional Info
✓ Panic attacks are the hallmark of panic disorder, marked by a sudden surge of intense fear or dread, often with a sense of impending doom.
✓ These episodes are overwhelming, disrupt normal functioning, narrow perception, and may cause distorted thinking, leading individuals to believe they're going crazy or having a heart attack.
✓ Panic attacks usually occur unexpectedly, are highly intense, last about 10 minutes, and then subside. Rarely do panic attacks last over 30 minutes.
✓ Psychotherapy is an effective treatment for panic disorder.
✓ Several medications have been approved for panic disorder, including escitalopram and venlafaxine.
