During a routine assessment on a medical unit, a client with a history of panic disorder suddenly removes their blood pressure cuff, begins hyperventilating, and states, 'I cannot breathe in here, the walls are shrinking!' The client is currently receiving continuous intravenous (IV) fluids for cellulitis. Which action is the priority for the practical nurse (PN) to take?
- AReassure the client that they are in a safe environment and nothing terrible will happen.
- BApply soft wrist restraints to prevent the client from dislodging the continuous IV line.
- CAsk the client to explain exactly why they feel like the walls are shrinking.
- Remain with the client while using a calm demeanor and short, simple sentences.Cevap
Cevap
The priority nursing action is to remain with the client while maintaining a calm demeanor and communicating with short, simple sentences.
During panic-level anxiety, the client experiences a severe narrowing of the perceptual field, rendering them unable to process complex information or instructions. Remaining with the client promotes physical and emotional safety. Because cognitive function is temporarily impaired, using a calm demeanor along with short, simple, and direct sentences is the only effective communication strategy.
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Anahtar Kavram
Nursing Management of Severe Anxiety and Panic