A client who is experiencing a severe level of anxiety and reports a racing heartbeat, dizziness, and expresses a sense that something dreadful will happen. The nurse observes the client pacing and waving hands rapidly. Which action should the nurse take?

Choice A rationale: Speaking calmly and assuring the client of safety is a therapeutic intervention for managing severe anxiety and panic. It helps provide a sense of reassurance and safety to the client during an acute anxious episode. Choice B rationale: Attempting to distract the client can be helpful in some situations, but in severe anxiety, the focus should initially be on providing a sense of safety and addressing immediate distress. Choice C rationale: Helping the client identify thoughts is more appropriate during less acute moments or in the context of cognitive-behavioral therapy. In severe anxiety, the immediate focus is on providing support and reassurance. Choice D rationale: Exploring past behaviors may be part of a comprehensive assessment but is not the first priority during an acute episode of severe anxiety.