During a severe anxiety attack on a psychiatric unit, which intervention may be used if prescribed?

During a severe anxiety attack on a psychiatric unit, which intervention may be used if prescribed?

• A. Administer PRN lorazepam (correct)
• B. Restrain the patient
• C. Move to a quieter room
• D. Offer water

Answer: (A)

Rapid relief of severe anxiety in an acute crisis is achieved with a short-term pharmacologic option when it’s prescribed. Administering a PRN dose of lorazepam provides quick anxiolysis by calming central nervous system activity, which lowers the body's fight-or-flight response, reduces agitation, and helps the patient engage with de-escalation techniques. This approach is intended for immediate relief and requires a physician’s order with careful monitoring due to risks like sedation and respiratory depression and potential interactions. While moving to a quieter room and offering water are useful supportive steps, they don’t produce the rapid relief that a prescribed PRN benzodiazepine can during a crisis. Restraints are not a first-line option and carry significant safety concerns, being reserved for imminent danger after attempting less restrictive measures.

Rapid relief of severe anxiety in an acute crisis is achieved with a short-term pharmacologic option when it’s prescribed. Administering a PRN dose of lorazepam provides quick anxiolysis by calming central nervous system activity, which lowers the body's fight-or-flight response, reduces agitation, and helps the patient engage with de-escalation techniques. This approach is intended for immediate relief and requires a physician’s order with careful monitoring due to risks like sedation and respiratory depression and potential interactions. While moving to a quieter room and offering water are useful supportive steps, they don’t produce the rapid relief that a prescribed PRN benzodiazepine can during a crisis. Restraints are not a first-line option and carry significant safety concerns, being reserved for imminent danger after attempting less restrictive measures.