Psychiatric / mental health nursing · practice question
A client in an inpatient psychiatric unit begins pacing aggressively and clenching fists. What is the priority nursing action?
Multiple choiceHardnclex-rn-bsnnclex-validatednclex-2026psychiatric-mental-health
Answer and explanation
Correct answer
D. Maintain a safe distance, remove hazardous items, and follow de-escalation and safety protocols.
Why
Early aggression requires de-escalation, environmental safety, and staff support per mental health protocols—not confrontation or abandonment.
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