A client in the emergency department begins hyperventilating, reporting a "pounding heart" and "feeling like I'm going to die." The nurse recognizes these as signs of a panic attack. What is the nurse's priority intervention?

✓ Correct Answer: Option B

During an acute panic attack, the priority is to help the client regain control over physiological symptoms, especially breathing. Slow, deep breathing can reduce hyperventilation and alleviate physical discomfort, de-escalating the attack.