Timby's Introductory Medical-Surgical Nursing Thirteenth, North American Edition - Caring for Clients With Anxiety Disorders Related

Review Timby's Introductory Medical-Surgical Nursing Thirteenth, North American Edition - Caring for Clients With Anxiety Disorders related questions and content

A client who is being interviewed by the nurse begins pacing and wringing hands, and repeating, 'I just need to keep moving.' Which statement by the nurse is most appropriate and therapeutic for this client?

  • A. Please sit down and relax.
  • B. Is something bothering you?
  • C. The physician will talk with you next.
  • D. Are you feeling anxious?
Correct Answer: D

Rationale: Asking if the client is feeling anxious helps to identify the behavior being presented and provides an opening for the client to express feelings. Asking the client to sit down and relax is not appropriate and may further agitate the client. By stating the physician will speak with the client next, the nurse is dismissing the behavior. Asking if something is bothering the client is a vague question and does not address the expression of anxiety.