A nurse is caring for a client who has generalized anxiety disorder and is having a panic attack. Which of the following actions should the nurse take first?

A. Encourage the client to talk about their feelings: During a panic attack, clients are often overwhelmed and unable to process or articulate feelings. Encouraging discussion is helpful later but is not the first priority during acute panic. B. Assure the client that they are in a safe place: Ensuring the client feels safe addresses immediate anxiety and establishes a calming environment. Safety and emotional stabilization are the first priorities according to the nursing process when managing acute panic attacks. C. Promote problem-solving with the client: Problem-solving requires cognitive processing, which is impaired during a panic attack. This intervention is appropriate after the client has calmed and is able to think clearly. D. Explore behaviors that have worked to relieve anxiety in the past: Reviewing coping strategies is useful once the client’s acute panic symptoms are under control. It is not the immediate priority compared with ensuring safety and reducing immediate fear.