A client with a history of posttraumatic stress is panting and breathing heavily while shouting out some strange words. The nurse reviews the nursing assessment and understands that the client is practicing a form of relaxation called power breathing. The best action for the nurse to take is to:

• A. Allow privacy, but check on the client frequently
• B. Order the client to stop the breathing exercise
• C. Remove the client from the room
• D. Document the event as noncompliant

Answer: (A)

Power breathing is a controlled-relaxation technique that helps regulate arousal in distressing states by guiding breathing and allowing vocalization to release tension. When a client with PTSD uses this method, the nurse should support the process by providing privacy to reduce external stimulation and embarrassment, while also checking on the client frequently to ensure safety and monitor how the technique affects breathing and overall status. This approach respects the client’s self-regulation efforts and maintains a therapeutic, nonjudgmental environment. Intervening to stop the exercise or removing the client from the room would disrupt an ongoing coping strategy and could heighten anxiety, while labeling the behavior as noncompliant misreads a voluntary, self-directed relaxation practice.