💊 NCLEX-RN Exam Prep

During a therapy session, a client with Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD) suddenly becomes unresponsive to the environment, staring blankly, and reporting "being back there." What is the nurse's priority intervention?

A Reorient the client forcefully to the present reality.
B Administer a PRN anxiolytic medication immediately.
C Use grounding techniques, such as asking them to identify five things they can see.
D Leave the client alone to process the experience privately.

✓ Correct Answer: Option C

Grounding techniques help gently bring a client experiencing a flashback back to the present moment, preventing further dissociation and re-traumatization without being intrusive or overwhelming.

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