Introduction to ANXIETY Nursing Diagnosis
Anxiety is a normal human emotion which everyone experiences from time to time. Anxiety can be an indicator of underlying disorders or problems, and it can interfere with daily functioning if not addressed. Understanding nursing diagnosis for Anxiety is critical for accurately identifying the problem and providing appropriate treatment.
Nursing Diagnosis Definition
The definition of Anxiety as per NANDA International (NANDA-I) is “a vague, uneasy feeling of discomfort or dread accompanied by an autonomic response (e.g., shortness of breath, increased heart rate, sweating), which may be associated with fear of impending danger, panic, or doom”.
Defining Characteristics: Subjectives
- Expresses fear
- Verbalizes concern about health
- Exhibits apprehension
- Reports uneasy feeling
- States feeling of terror
- Complains of discomfort in chest
Defining Characteristics: Objectives
- Appears tense or apprehensive
- Creates physical barriers
- Demonstrates distractibility
- Grips bed sheets
- Exhibits restlessness
- Monitors environment
- Communication difficulties
- Cultural norms and values
- Development tasks
- Emotional deprivation
- Excess uncertainty
- Failure to recognize early signs of stress
- Fear of loss of control
- Inadequate role clarity
- Insufficient knowledge and understanding
Risk Population
Patients at risk for Anxiety may include those who have experienced recent life changes or trauma, have a family history of mental health concerns, or are facing chronic physical illness.
Associated Problems
An anxiety nursing diagnosis associated problems may include adverse effects on daily functioning, depression, failure to meet age appropriate developmental levels, impaired coping, impaired social interaction, and insufficient or delayed support systems.
Suggestions of Use
The use of the Anxiety nursing diagnosis should be considered when appropriate symptoms are present, as well as considering other diagnoses such as Fear, Stress Overload, and Social Isolation. Appropriate therapy for the diagnosis, along with patient education and support, should be provided.
Suggested alternative NANDA diagnosis
Alternative diagnoses may include, but are not limited to, Risk for Injury, Ineffective Coping, Ineffective Protective Mechanisms, Social Isolation, Situational Low Self-Esteem and Stress Overload.
Best Practices and Usage Tips
- Develop a plan of care in collaboration with the patient that includes lifestyle changes and/or medications to reduce anxiety.
- Discuss with the patient safety techniques, relaxation techniques, and coping techniques.
- Encourage the patient to express feelings openly and honestly in order to reduce anxiety.
- Provide appropriate and tailored patient education to reduce fears and increase understanding.
- Refer to a psychiatrist or psychologist if appropriate.
NOC Results
- Resilience: A measure of the patient’s ability to respond constructively to stressful events and circumstances.
- Self-esteem: The patient’s strength of identification with certain desirable personal qualities.
- Social interaction: The patient’s ability to maintain interpersonal relationships.
- Stress level: The patient’s subjective appraisal of a perceived imbalance between demands placed upon them and their ability to cope.
NIC Interventions
- Environmental Management: Establishing a safe environment to reduce potential sources of stress.
- Reality Orientation: Utilization of orientation techniques to promote the patient’s understanding of the reality of their situation.
- Guided Imagery: The utilization of imagination and creative thought to reduce stress and promote relaxation.
- Relaxation Therapy: Utilizing relaxation exercises to reduce the physical and psychological response to stress.
- Marshalling of Resources: Assistance in identifying, utilizing, and combining existing resources in order to reduce anxiety.
Conclusion
nursing diagnosis for anxiety is important in accurately assessing and providing appropriate treatment for this disorder. The correct assessment, intervention, and support of the patient with this diagnosis can lead to improved outcomes and quality of life.
FAQs
- What is the NANDA definition of Anxiety?
The definition of Anxiety as per NANDA International (NANDA-I) is “a vague, uneasy feeling of discomfort or dread accompanied by an autonomic response (e.g., shortness of breath, increased heart rate, sweating), which may be associated with fear of impending danger, panic, or doom”. - What are some associated problems?
Anxiety nursing diagnosis associated problems may include adverse effects on daily functioning, depression, failure to meet age appropriate developmental levels, impaired coping, impaired social interaction, and insufficient or delayed support systems. - What type of therapy is recommended for this diagnosis?
Appropriate therapy for the diagnosis, along with patient education and support, should be provided.
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