💊 NCLEX-RN Exam Prep

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?

A Administer a prescribed anxiolytic medication.
B Encourage the client to breathe slowly and deeply.
C Reassure the client that they are not having a heart attack.
D Provide a detailed explanation of panic attack symptoms.

✓ 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.

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