Registered Practical Nurse (RPN) Practice Test

Which intervention is essential for nursing management in acute panic disorder?

1. Facilitating group therapy

2. Administering medications immediately

3. Assessing for potential suicide risks

4. Encouraging deep breathing exercises

The correct answer is: Assessing for potential suicide risks

The key focus in nursing management for an individual experiencing an acute panic disorder is to assess for potential suicide risks. This intervention is crucial because individuals suffering from panic attacks may experience overwhelming fear and anxiety, which can lead to feelings of hopelessness or self-harm. An assessment for suicide risk allows the nurse to identify patients who may be in immediate danger and take necessary precautions to ensure their safety. This step is fundamental to developing a comprehensive and safe care plan. While other interventions like facilitating group therapy, administering medications, and encouraging deep breathing exercises can be beneficial in the overall management of panic disorder, they may not address acute safety concerns as directly as a suicide risk assessment. Group therapy and medication might be part of longer-term strategies, and deep breathing exercises can help manage symptoms but may not be sufficient when the patient's safety is at stake. Therefore, prioritizing the assessment of potential suicide risks is an essential aspect of nursing care in this context.