Which action is the nurse’s priority for a newly admitted patient who is anxious?

Choice A reason: While understanding defense mechanisms can help in long-term psychological care, it is not the immediate priority during initial assessment. It requires deeper therapeutic engagement and is secondary to evaluating current distress. Choice B reason: Administering medications may be necessary, but pharmacologic intervention should follow a thorough assessment. Giving medication without understanding the severity or triggers of anxiety can be inappropriate or unsafe. Choice C reason: Assessing the level of anxiety is the first and most critical step. It guides all subsequent interventions, including environmental modifications, therapeutic communication, and medication administration. It ensures individualized and safe care. Choice D reason: Reducing stimuli can help manage anxiety, but it is an intervention that should be tailored based on the assessment. Without knowing the patient’s current anxiety level, this action may not be sufficient or appropriate.