NCLEX-RN

Category - Psychosocial

A client diagnosed with post-traumatic stress syndrome is treated with anti-anxiety drugs. One morning, he tells the nurse that, “I feel like I’m losing control over my body.” The initial response for this is to:
  1. Acknowledge the anxiety.
  2. Introduce a similar situation to the anxiety-provoking situation to desensitize the client.
  3. Teach new relaxation techniques.
  4. Administer a PRN dose of anti-anxiety medication.
Explanation
Answer: A - The initial response during the onset of attack is to acknowledge the anxiety. The nurse should not force a similar anxiety-provoking situation on the client as this can increase anxiety. The client is currently having an anxiety attack; teaching new relaxation techniques is ineffective at this time. The nurse should encourage previously learned relaxation strategies. Anti-anxiety medications should be given as a last resort, in severe anxiety or panic attacks.
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