Nokea
The client is brought to the emergency department with complaint of chest pain, rapid breathing, and palpitations. Cardiovascular event is ruled out, and the client is diagnosed with acute panic attack. The client seems embarrassed and states, 'I thought I was going to die.' Which is the best response from the nurse?
- A. It must have been frightening for you.
- B. Chest pain should always be evaluated.
- C. We would not let you die.
- D. But you are okay now.
Correct Answer: A
Rationale: It must have been frightening' is an empathetic statement that validates the feelings of the client and acknowledges the symptoms experienced. This is a therapeutic response and conveys respect, self-worth, and caring. Chest pain should always be evaluated, but this comment is factual not emotionally supportive. Other statements are not indicated as therapeutic or caring.
You may also like to solve these questions
The client recounts to the nurse an instance of jumping onto the hood of a car to avoid an approaching dog, and reports feeling embarrassed by this reaction. The client discloses suffering from a severe dog bite in childhood. The nurse classifies this symptom as which of the following?
- A. Generalized anxiety
- B. Panic disorder
- C. Phobic disorder
- D. Post-traumatic stress disorder
Correct Answer: C
Rationale: Phobic disorders are those conditions in which a person manifests an exaggerated fear. When a person with a phobic disorder is exposed to the fear-causing stimuli, the symptom of anxiety can reach panic levels. Generalized anxiety is related to chronic worrying. Panic disorder can lead to intense fear that precipitates escaping to a safer place but is less specific to phobic disorder in this case. PTSD is not indicated.
A client who has an intense fear of flying has elected to participate in a therapy that culminates in a short air flight. This is an example of which type of therapy?
- A. Psychotherapy
- B. Cognitive therapy
- C. Behavioral therapy
- D. Alternative therapy
Correct Answer: C
Rationale: Desensitization is a form of behavioral therapy and attempts to extinguish undesirable responses by learning adaptive techniques. Emotional support is provided while the client is gradually coached through experiences that provoke anxiety. Eventually, the client will be able to tolerate the anxiety-provoking experience independently. Psychotherapy involves talking with a psychiatrist, psychologist, or other clinical specialist. Cognitive therapy is a form of psychotherapy in which the therapist assists the client in correcting faulty belief systems. Alternative therapy is the use of techniques to manage anxiety through relaxation techniques and physical exercise.
What is a side effect of beta-adrenergic blockers?
- A. Sedation
- B. Hyperglycemia
- C. Bradycardia
- D. Addiction
Correct Answer: C
Rationale: Major side effects of beta-adrenergic blocking agents include bradycardia and elevated blood glucose levels. They do not cause sedation, hyperglycemia, or addiction.
A client is scheduled for magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) of the head and neck. Which action by the nurse would be most helpful in calming the anxious client?
- A. Administer antianxiety medication.
- B. Allow the client to express fears and concerns.
- C. Discuss how others have survived the procedure.
- D. Explain how the client can notify staff if anxiety increases.
Correct Answer: B
Rationale: Building trust and restoring comfort can be accomplished when the nurse allows the client to verbalize anxiety. Identifying the problem and exploring possible solutions may be helpful in decreasing anxiety. The physician may prescribe an antianxiety medication to the client prior to testing. Antianxiety drugs work but conversation is more immediate and safer. Knowing the client can call for assistance during the testing may be helpful in decreasing anxiety. But calling for assistance does not help the client in the moment. Discussion of other clients is not helpful in this situation.
One week ago, the client was prescribed Buspirone (Buspar) for anxiety. The client phones the office and reports the medication has not eliminated the symptoms. Which is the best response by the nurse?
- A. It may take up to 4 weeks for full therapeutic response.
- B. There are many other medications that can be offered.
- C. Buspar will not eliminate all symptoms associated with anxiety.
- D. Call back in one week if the symptoms continue.
Correct Answer: A
Rationale: Buspirone (Buspar) may take 2 to 4 weeks to produce desired effects. Clients should be provided this information at the time of initial administration. Changing to another medication would not be indicated at this time. Suggesting that the symptoms may not be eliminated is not indicated and should be avoided. Listening to and validating the client's concerns is a therapeutic measure.