Question

A nurse is planning care for a client who has a generalized anxiety disorder. Which of the following levels of anxiety to the nurse plan to teach the client relaxation techniques

a.PanicA panic level of anxiety will interfere with the client's ability to concentrate and process information.
b.ModerateA moderate level of anxiety will interfere with the client's ability to concentrate and process information.
c.SevereA severe level of anxiety will interfere with the client's ability to concentrate and process information.
d.MildMY ANSWERThe nurse should plan to teach the client relaxation techniques during the mild level of anxiety. This is when the client will be able to concentrate and process information.

Answer 1

Relaxation techniques should be taught during a mild level of anxiety because the client can better concentrate and process information. Moderate to panic levels of anxiety impede the learning of new coping strategies due to reduced cognitive abilities.

Step-by-step explanation:

The nurse should plan to teach the client relaxation techniques during a mild level of anxiety. At this level, the client retains the ability to concentrate and process information, allowing for the effective learning and application of these techniques. Relaxation techniques are designed to induce the relaxation response, a state of rest that decreases the stress response, reduces sympathetic arousal, and has been shown to be effective in conditions such as high blood pressure and anxiety disorders.

Situations of moderate, severe, or panic levels of anxiety can significantly impair an individual's cognitive abilities, making it difficult for them to focus on and retain new information. Therefore, these levels are less optimal for teaching new coping strategies. Understanding and addressing the unique needs of individuals with generalized anxiety disorder is essential for providing effective care and helping them to manage their anxiety more effectively.