Difficulty: Medium
Average Score: 92%
Full-length
On admission to the inpatient unit, a 34-year-old client is able to follow simple directions, but with great difficulty. He is worried about how he can keep clean in such a public place and repeatedly dusts his bureau, straightens his bed, and adjusts the clothes in his closet. The client is experiencing a severe level of anxiety. Which response by the nurse would be most therapeutic in initially attempting to reduce his anxiety?
Correct answer
B
Rationale
Acknowledging the anxiety and channeling it into some positive activity, such as a unit tour, is therapeutic and helps reduce anxiety by providing distraction and orientation.