Question

A nurse in a mental health clinic is caring for a client who has posttraumatic stress disorder after returning from military deployment. Which of the following is a priority action for the nurse to take?

a.Assist the client to identify personal areas of strength.The nurse should to assist the client to identify personal areas of strength to better cope with PTSD; however, another action is the nurse's priority.
b.Encourage the client to talk about experiences during the deployment.The nurse should encourage the client to talk about experiences during the deployment when the client is ready to discuss this subject; however, another action is the nurse's priority.
c.Stay with the client when flashbacks occur.MY ANSWERThe greatest risk to this client is injury that can occur during a flashback; therefore, the priority intervention for the nurse is to remain with the client and offer reassurance and support when flashbacks occur.
d.Teach the client stress-management techniques.The nurse should teach the client stress-management techniques, such as deep breathing and meditation to help the client cope with PTSD; however, another action is the nurse's priority.

Answer 1

The priority action for the nurse is to stay with the client when flashbacks occur.

Step-by-step explanation:

The priority action for the nurse to take when caring for a client with posttraumatic stress disorder (PTSD) after military deployment is to stay with the client when flashbacks occur. This is because during a flashback, the client may experience distressing and vivid memories of the traumatic event, which can lead to a sense of fear, panic, or disorientation. By remaining with the client and providing reassurance and support, the nurse can help create a sense of safety and facilitate the client's grounding in the present moment.