A nurse who is co-leading group therapy recognizes that a client is beginning to experience severe levels of anxiety. Which intervention is best for the nurse to implement?

A. Assisting the client with relaxation techniques within the group may be ineffective for severe anxiety because the client may be too overwhelmed by the environment to participate or focus. B. Escorting the client from the group to a quieter environment is the most effective intervention for severe anxiety. Reducing external stimuli allows the client to regain composure and prevents escalation of physiological and psychological stress responses. C. Providing education about coping strategies is appropriate for mild or moderate anxiety, but during severe anxiety the client is unlikely to process or retain information effectively. D. Asking the client to describe or identify the source of feelings can increase anxiety and is not therapeutic during a severe anxiety episode. Exploration of triggers is more appropriate once the client is calmer.