An anxious patient who receives anxiolytic medication every 6 hours PRN is in the corridor pacing.He grabs the arms of anyone who comes along and asks "When can I have medication?" His voice is high pitched and shaky.His respiratory rate is rapid.His assigned nurse should intervene by:

Question

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This scenario is consistent with a severe level of anxiety.Medication should be given promptly when a patient is experiencing severe anxiety that may carry potential safety risks for the patient and others.The patient should be told when he can have his next dose of medication and be reassured that it will be given promptly.Sending the patient away to lie down will not lower his anxiety and might increase risk.The preferred intervention would be to stay with the patient instead.Joking is inappropriate because the severely anxious patient has difficulty processing information and will be unable to differentiate joking from fact.Although it could be helpful to guide him to try relaxation-promoting options (such as deep breathing)in the meantime,board games or television,while distracting,are probably beyond his ability to engage in,given his anxiety level.

An Anxious Patient Who Receives Anxiolytic Medication Every 6 Hours