Question

A nurse is caring for a client who is experiencing a panic attack. Which of the following actions should the nurse take?

a.Orient the client to person, place, and time.A client who is experiencing a panic attack is generally not disoriented.
b.Assist the client with deep-breathing exercises.MY ANSWERRelaxation techniques, such as deep, abdominal breathing exercises, help defuse manifestations of anxiety.
c.Calm the client by using therapeutic touch.Therapeutic touch is not intended to de-escalate panic in a client who is anxious.
d.Have the client sit alone in a quiet room.It is recommended that the nurse stay with a client who is experiencing panic anxiety to ensure the client's safety.

Answer 1

The nurse should assist the client with deep-breathing exercises during a panic attack, which entails sitting in an upright, relaxed position, minimizing external stimuli, using a calming mantra, and focusing on pleasant thoughts.

Step-by-step explanation:

The appropriate action a nurse should take when caring for a client experiencing a panic attack is to assist the client with deep-breathing exercises. Deep-breathing exercises are a form of relaxation technique that can help to alleviate the manifestations of anxiety. Here are steps to guide a client through such an exercise: first, have the client sit upright on a comfortable chair with feet on the ground and body in a relaxed position. Second, ensure the environment is quiet, which can help in reducing external stimuli that might exacerbate anxiety. The client can then be instructed to close their eyes, which can help in focusing inward. Third, guide the client to repeat a calming word or a phrase, a mantra, such as “alert mind, calm body.” This can provide a simple focus and facilitate relaxation. Lastly, encourage the client to passively allow their mind to focus on pleasant thoughts, such as imagining nature or feeling the warmth of their blood nourishing their body. These steps can form a helpful protocol for a nurse to use when assisting a client dealing with a panic attack.