Questions: A nurse is reinforcing teaching with a client who has generalized anxiety disorder to perform a deep-breathing exercise. Which of the following actions should the nurse instruct the client to take? A. Utilize chest breathing B. Breathe in through the nose C. Keep the shoulders erect D. Repeat the exercise for at least 10 minutes for effectiveness

The answer is B: Breathe in through the nose.

Here's why:

• A. Utilize chest breathing: Chest breathing is shallow and can actually exacerbate anxiety symptoms. Deep breathing exercises emphasize diaphragmatic breathing, not chest breathing. Therefore, this option is incorrect.
• B. Breathe in through the nose: Breathing in through the nose helps to filter and humidify the air, which can promote relaxation. It also encourages the use of the diaphragm. Therefore, this option is correct.
• C. Keep the shoulders erect: Keeping the shoulders erect can create tension in the upper body, counteracting the goal of relaxation in deep breathing exercises. The client should aim to relax their shoulders. Therefore, this option is incorrect.
• D. Repeat the exercise for at least 10 minutes for effectiveness: While longer periods of deep breathing can be beneficial, it's not always necessary to start with 10 minutes. Short, regular practice is more important initially. The client can start with shorter durations and gradually increase the time as they become more comfortable. Therefore, this option is incorrect.

Summary: The nurse should instruct the client to breathe in through the nose during deep-breathing exercises for generalized anxiety disorder.