A nurse on a mental health unit is caring for a client who has generalized anxiety disorder. The client received a telephone call that was upsetting, and now the client is pacing up and down the corridors of the unit. Which of the following actions should the nurse take?

A. Instruct the client to sit down and stop pacing: This is a non-therapeutic, directive approach. The client is pacing to release high anxiety and physical tension. Forcing them to stop without an outlet can increase agitation or lead to an outburst. B. Walk with the client at a gradually slower pace: This action allows the nurse to remain with the client (offering presence) while validating their need to move. By matching the client's pace and gradually slowing down, the nurse can help de-escalate the client's anxiety level through "pacing and leading" techniques without confrontation. C. Allow the client to pace alone until physically tired: Leaving an anxious client alone can increase their feelings of abandonment and may compromise safety if the anxiety escalates to panic. D. Have a staff member escort the client to her room: Seclusion or isolation is a restrictive measure used only when a client poses an immediate threat to self or others. Pacing does not meet the criteria for this intervention.