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

Choice A reason: While understanding defense mechanisms is useful in long-term care, it is not the immediate priority during initial assessment. Choice B reason: Medication administration should follow a thorough assessment. Giving medication without understanding the severity or triggers of anxiety may be inappropriate. Choice C reason: Assessing the level of anxiety is the priority. It guides all subsequent interventions and ensures safe, individualized care. Choice D reason: Limiting stimuli may be helpful, but it should be based on the patient’s assessed needs. Assessment must come first.