An inpatient on the psychiatric unit is having a panic attack. An appropriate nursing intervention at this time would be to:

Choice A Reason: Increase external stimuli. Increasing external stimuli is not appropriate during a panic attack. Panic attacks are characterized by intense fear and anxiety, often accompanied by physical symptoms such as rapid heartbeat, sweating, and shortness of breath. Increasing external stimuli can exacerbate these symptoms and heighten the client’s distress. The goal during a panic attack is to reduce stimuli and create a calming environment to help the client regain control. Choice B Reason: Stay with the client and speak to them in a calm manner. This is the correct response. Staying with the client and speaking to them in a calm manner provides reassurance and helps to ground them during the panic attack. The presence of a calm and supportive nurse can help reduce the client’s anxiety and provide a sense of safety. This approach aligns with therapeutic communication techniques and is effective in managing acute anxiety episodes. Choice C Reason: Allow the client to have their requested space. While it is important to respect a client’s need for space, leaving them alone during a panic attack may not be the best approach. Clients experiencing panic attacks may feel overwhelmed and frightened, and the presence of a supportive nurse can help them feel safer and more secure. It is important to balance the client’s need for space with the need for support and reassurance. Choice D Reason: Review the updated problem list with the client. Reviewing the updated problem list is not appropriate during a panic attack. This action requires cognitive engagement and focus, which the client may not be capable of during an acute anxiety episode. The priority during a panic attack is to help the client calm down and manage their immediate symptoms, not to discuss or review problems. \