A client presents to the psychiatric unit crying hysterically. She is diagnosed with severe anxiety disorder. The first nursing action is to:
A client presents to the psychiatric unit crying hysterically. She is diagnosed with severe anxiety disorder. The first nursing action is to:
The first nursing action should be to stand or sit next to the client. This action conveys a message of caring and security, helping to provide immediate comfort and stability in a crisis situation. Demanding that she relax is too controlling and could increase her anxiety. Asking what is the problem might be ineffective as she may not be able to articulate her feelings in her current state. Giving her something to do could also elevate her anxiety rather than alleviate it.
Give her something to do