Your patient is a 28-year-old male with a history of panic attacks. He states that symptoms began about 20 minutes ago and that he has been unable to get them under control. He complains of shortness of breath, chest pain, dizziness, and a feeling that he is going to die. His skin is warm and moist. HR = 132, BP = 138/98, RR = 26 and shallow. You spend 15 minutes on-scene with him attempting to "talk him down" without success. Which of the following is most appropriate?
A) Oxygen, IV, nitroglycerin, aspirin, morphine
B) IV, diazepam
C) Oxygen
D) IV, haloperidol

Question

Quizplus · Accepted Answer

The patient is exhibiting signs and symptoms of a panic attack, and attempts at verbal de-escalation have been unsuccessful. IV diazepam (Valium) is a benzodiazepine that can help to calm the patient and alleviate symptoms. Oxygen may be given for shortness of breath, but the patient's oxygen saturation is not provided in the scenario, so it is not clear if it is warranted. The other medication options (nitroglycerin, aspirin, morphine, and haloperidol) are not indicated in this scenario.

Your Patient Is a 28-Year-Old Male with a History of Panic