The patient comes to the emergency department with an anxiety attack. He tells the nurse he heard that there was another anthrax attack in the capitol and is concerned about running out of medications. What is the best response by the nurse?

Question

1. "You don't need to worry about another attack at all; I think our government can take care of us."
2. "Your health is in danger due to the anxiety; we really need to focus on reducing your anxiety now."
3. "The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) maintains a large stockpile of medications for us in case that occurs."
4. "I'm sure the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) has contingency plans in the event of an anthrax attack."

Answer 1

Correct Answer: 3
Rationale: The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) maintains a stockpile of antibiotics, vaccines, medical/surgical supplies, and other patient-support supplies in the event of a bioterrorist attack. Telling the patient not to worry is a nonspecific and patronizing response. Reducing anxiety is important, but this response does not answer the patient's concern. Telling the patient that the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) has contingency plans is too vague and nonspecific.