A patient complains of tension, indigestion, and difficult concentrating; his resting pulse is 110/minute. An appropriate nursing response would be:
a. "Perhaps time out in the seclusion room would help you focus.".
b. "What do you think would we could do to help you feel calmer?"
c. "It might help to talk. Tell me about what has been going on today.".
d. "I'll check about getting you a PRN medication for your anxiety.".
C
The patient is exhibiting a moderate level of anxiety. Although his perceptual field and concentration are reduced at this level, the patient can benefit from discussing his situation in simple terms. Identifying what was happening (or what the patient was thinking about) as his anxiety was escalating can be helpful in identifying and addressing specific stressors. The patient does not require seclusion or safety. Isolation would deny him the opportunity to process and address his anxiety. Although it is often helpful to collaborate with the patient in identifying possible solutions, it is likely that his moderate level of anxiety may make problem solving very challenging, adding to his frustration. Antianxiety medication could be beneficial, but verbal interventions are often effective at lower levels of anxiety and do not have the abuse potential or side effects of medications.
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