What should a nurse prioritize when caring for a client exhibiting physical agitation in an acute care setting?

Prioritizing the safety of all clients and staff is critical when caring for a client exhibiting physical agitation in an acute care setting. In such scenarios, agitation can manifest as increased restlessness, aggressive behavior, or an inability to remain still, which poses risks not only to the client but also to the healthcare team and other clients in the vicinity.

Ensuring a safe environment helps to prevent potential harm or escalation of the situation. This includes recognizing any immediate threats or potential for violence and taking necessary precautions such as de-escalation techniques, maintaining a safe physical distance, or having additional staff available to assist if needed.

While encouraging expressive language can be beneficial for the client’s emotional processing, it is essential to first ensure that everyone is safe before attempting to engage the client in conversation. Prescribing medication and leaving the client alone might not adequately address immediate safety concerns and could potentially exacerbate the situation. Therefore, maintaining safety takes precedence in managing the care of an agitated client effectively.