The nurse is admitting a patient with severe anxiety. When assessing the patient, the nurse's questions should be
Explanation
• Patients with anxiety disorders are capable of collaborating with the nurse in the assessment and planning of their care.
• When the patient’s anxiety diminishes, cognition begins to return. When anxiety has subsided to a manageable level, the nurse uses open-ended communication techniques to discuss the experience.
• Talking to the patient in a low, calm and soothing voice can help. If the person cannot sit still, walking with him or her while talking can be effective. The nurse must keep talking to the person in a comforting manner, even if the patient cannot process what the nurse is saying.