A client in the emergency department begins to hyperventilate, report chest tightness, and states, "I feel like I'm dying!" The nurse identifies this as a panic attack. What is the nurse's *priority* intervention?
✓ Correct Answer: Option B
During a panic attack, hyperventilation exacerbates physical symptoms. Encouraging slow, deep breathing is the priority to restore physiological balance, reduce symptoms, and help the client regain control.