A client with post-traumatic stress disorder is having a flashback and says, "It is happening again." Which response should the nurse use?
1It is important for you to try to stop thinking about the traumatic event now.
2You are in the hospital now; look at the clock and feel your feet on the floor.✓ Correct answer
3I will leave you alone for now and return when the flashback seems to be over.
4Describe exactly what you are seeing and feeling during the flashback right now.
Explanation
Grounding helps the client reconnect with present safety during a flashback. The nurse should use calm orientation to current time, place, and body cues. Forcing trauma details, dismissing symptoms, or leaving the client alone can increase distress.
Clinical Judgment Use the client cues, timing, labs, and safety risks to select the response that best fits PTSD grounding during flashback.
Memory Tip Match the strongest cue cluster to the safest nursing judgment.
KR vs US NCLEX items reward cue-based priority thinking rather than isolated recall.
Clinical Practice GuideFor PTSD grounding during flashback, compare the complete cue pattern with the client's current stability, ordered data, and expected nursing scope.
CautionDo not choose an action from one isolated cue when the full scenario changes priority or safety.
PTSD — A trauma-related disorder with symptoms such as re-experiencing, avoidance, and hyperarousal.
Flashback — A vivid re-experiencing of a traumatic event.
Grounding — A technique that helps a person focus on the present moment and safety.