A nurse is leading a group therapy session. A client with a history of violence suddenly stands up and appears angry. Which of the following actions should the nurse take?

Choice A reason: Mechanical restraints are a last resort due to risks of physical and psychological harm. Premature restraint escalates agitation in a client with a violence history, as it may trigger a fight-or-flight response. De-escalation techniques, like verbal exploration, are prioritized to ensure safety. Choice B reason: Standing directly in front of an angry client can be perceived as confrontational, increasing the risk of violence. Maintaining a safe distance and non-threatening posture reduces tension, as close proximity may heighten arousal in a client with a history of violent behavior. Choice C reason: Asking the client to describe feelings promotes verbal expression, de-escalating anger by addressing its source. This therapeutic approach reduces arousal by engaging the prefrontal cortex, helping the client process emotions and preventing escalation to violence in a group therapy setting. Choice D reason: Therapeutic touch can escalate agitation in an angry client, especially with a violence history, as it may be perceived as intrusive. Physical contact increases arousal in heightened states, risking aggressive responses, making verbal de-escalation a safer and more effective intervention.