Page 2251 - Saunders Comprehensive Review For NCLEX-RN

selective inattentiveness occurs.

d. Learning and problem solving

still occur.
e. Physical symptoms include increased
heart rate, perspiration, gastric
discomfort, headache, urinary urgency,
and/or mild tremors.
3. Severe
a. Severe anxiety is a feeling that
something bad is about to happen.
b. A significant narrowing in the
perceptual field occurs.
c. Focus is on minute or scattered details.
d. All behavior is aimed at relieving the
anxiety.
e. Learning and problem solving are not
possible.
f. Actions are aimed at reducing or
alleviating anxiety.
g. Physical symptoms are caused by
stimulation of the sympathetic nervous
system (e.g., headache, nausea,
dizziness, sleep disturbances),
increased tremors, pounding heart
rate, and hyperventilation.

h. The individual needs direction

to focus.
4. Panic
a. Associated with dread and terror and a
sense of impending doom
b. Disorganization, difficulty perceiving
reality, and inability to concentrate
c. Loss of rational thoughts with distorted
perception occurs.
d. The individual is unable to
communicate or function effectively.
e. If prolonged, panic can lead to
exhaustion and death.
f. Increased motor activity (pacing,
shouting, screaming) or withdrawal
g. Impulsive and erratic behavior
D. Interventions: General nursing measures (see Priority Nursing
Actions)

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