When interacting with a client experiencing a panic attack, which technique by the nurse is most likely to help reduce the client's anxiety level?
- A. Stand less than an arm's length away.
- B. State that everything is going to be okay.
- C. Instruct the client to take shallow breaths.
- D. Explain all actions and procedures.
Correct Answer: D
Rationale: Explaining actions provides predictability, reducing anxiety by enhancing the client's sense of control during a panic attack.
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What is the best approach for reorienting a confused client who wanders into other clients' rooms?
- A. Place a large sign with the client's name on the door.
- B. Keep the room doors on the unit locked at all times.
- C. Restrain the client in a wheelchair when unattended.
- D. Speak to the client about invading other people's privacy.
Correct Answer: C
Rationale: Restraining in a wheelchair prevents wandering while respecting dignity, though it must be used cautiously and per protocol.
The client is being discharged from treatment for addiction to alprazolam and will be attending an addiction self-help group. Which statement indicates that the client has an accurate understanding of maintaining sobriety according to 12-step self-help principles?
- A. “I cannot take any mood-altering drugs or I run the risk of relapsing.”
- B. “I will have to stay away from situations that I find anxiety-producing.”
- C. “I’ve learned how to safely use my nerve pills to avoid overusing them.”
- D. “Instead of these pills I should drink a small glass of wine when I feel anxious.”
Correct Answer: A
Rationale: Total abstinence (A) is 12-step principle. Avoiding situations (B) is unrealistic using pills (C) or alcohol (D) risks relapse.
Which action is best to use initially when trying to help the angry client maintain self-control?
- A. Administer a sedative.
- B. Apply four-point restraints.
- C. Use a calm voice and approach.
- D. Place the client in seclusion.
Correct Answer: C
Rationale: A calm voice and approach de-escalates anger by creating a non-threatening environment, encouraging the client to regain control.
When asked to identify the characteristics of post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD), the nurse correctly responds that most people with this disorder report which findings? Select all that apply.
- A. Recurring nightmares
- B. Auditory hallucinations
- C. Rapidly changing emotions
- D. Flashbacks
- E. Ease in being startled
- F. Trouble concentrating
Correct Answer: A,D,E,F
Rationale: PTSD symptoms include nightmares, flashbacks, hyperarousal (easily startled), and concentration difficulties, reflecting trauma-related distress.
While reviewing the client's psychiatric history, the nurse would expect to note which major characteristic of bipolar disorder?
- A. Ritualistic behavior
- B. Symbolic aggressiveness
- C. Cyclic mood swings
- D. Periodic amnesia
Correct Answer: C
Rationale: Cyclic mood swings, alternating between mania and depression, are the hallmark of bipolar disorder, defining its clinical presentation.