If a patient becomes increasingly agitated and anxious, what should the nurse assess first?

In a situation where a patient is becoming increasingly agitated and anxious, assessing for the presence of pain is crucial. Agitation and anxiety can often be manifestations of discomfort or pain that the patient may be experiencing but is unable to articulate effectively. Pain can lead to physiological responses that exacerbate anxiety and agitation; therefore, determining the presence and intensity of pain can help guide the nurse's subsequent interventions.

Identifying pain first not only addresses a potential underlying issue that directly impacts the patient's mental state but also allows for immediate and appropriate pain management. By alleviating pain, the nurse can help reduce agitation and anxiety levels significantly.

While other factors such as respiratory status, medications, and environmental elements are also important to assess in an anxious and agitated patient, the presence of unaddressed pain is often a priority, as it can quickly escalate into more severe anxiety or distress if not managed promptly. Furthermore, resolving any underlying pain can create a foundation upon which the nurse can assess and address other contributing factors to the patient's anxiety.