What is the priority nursing intervention for a patient experiencing a panic attack?

Correct Answer: A

Rationale: The correct answer is A because focusing on deep breathing exercises helps the patient regulate their breathing and reduce hyperventilation during a panic attack. This intervention promotes relaxation and helps calm the patient down. Encouraging avoidance of physical activity (B) is incorrect as it does not address the immediate physiological symptoms of a panic attack. Asking the patient to describe their feelings (C) may be helpful for assessment but does not directly address the urgent need to manage the panic attack. Providing detailed information about panic attacks (D) is important for education but is not the priority during an active panic attack.

Correct Answer: B

Rationale: The correct answer is B: Risk for suicide. This is the priority nursing diagnosis because individuals with major depressive disorder have an increased risk of suicidal ideation and behaviors. Assessing and addressing this risk is crucial for patient safety. Choice A is not the priority as nutritional imbalances may not pose immediate harm compared to suicide risk. Choice C, disturbed sleep pattern, and choice D, ineffective coping, are important but not as critical as addressing the risk of suicide in a patient with major depressive disorder.

Correct Answer: C

Rationale: The correct answer is C: Delusions. Positive symptoms of schizophrenia are behaviors or experiences that are added to a person's normal repertoire of functioning. Delusions are a hallmark positive symptom of schizophrenia, characterized by fixed false beliefs that are not based in reality. Apathy (choice A) and social withdrawal (choice B) are negative symptoms, which involve a reduction or absence of normal behaviors. Flat affect (choice D) is also a negative symptom, referring to a lack of emotional expressiveness. In summary, delusions are the correct choice as they represent a positive symptom of schizophrenia, while the other choices are negative symptoms.

Correct Answer: C

Rationale: The most appropriate nursing intervention for a patient with OCD who performs hand washing repeatedly is to allow the patient to wash hands at specified times (Choice C). This approach promotes a balance between addressing the patient's need for cleanliness and preventing excessive hand washing. By allowing the patient to wash hands at specific times, the nurse can help establish a routine that provides a sense of control for the patient while also setting boundaries to prevent excessive behavior. Restricting the patient from washing hands (Choice A) can lead to increased anxiety and resistance. Setting strict limits on hand washing (Choice B) may also trigger anxiety and escalate the behavior. Ignoring the patient's behavior (Choice D) does not address the underlying issue and can lead to worsening symptoms. Ultimately, Choice C supports a therapeutic approach that acknowledges the patient's needs while promoting healthier coping strategies.

Correct Answer: B

Rationale: The correct answer is B: Providing a low-stimulation environment. This is effective because it helps reduce excessive sensory input which can trigger or exacerbate manic symptoms. Manic patients are often sensitive to stimuli, so a calm and quiet environment can help in de-escalating their agitation and hyperactivity. A: Encouraging group activities can be overwhelming for a manic patient due to the increased stimulation and potential for overstimulation. C: Allowing free movement may lead to risky behaviors or agitation, as the patient may not be able to self-regulate effectively. D: Engaging in competitive games can escalate the manic symptoms and potentially lead to aggressive or impulsive behaviors. In summary, providing a low-stimulation environment is the most effective intervention as it helps manage manic symptoms by reducing triggers and promoting a sense of calm.