The assessment of pain and anxiety is a continuous process. When critically ill patients exhibit signs of anxiety, the nurse's first priority is to:
a. administer antianxiety medications as ordered.
b. administer pain medication as ordered.
c. identify and treat the underlying cause.
d. reassess the patient hourly to determine whether symptoms resolve on their own.
C
When patients exhibit signs of anxiety or agitation, the first priority is to identify and treat the underlying cause, which could be hypoxemia, hypoglycemia, hypotension, pain, or withdrawal from alcohol and drugs. Treatment is not initiated until assessment is completed. Medication may not be needed if the underlying cause can be resolved.
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