What is the first step a nurse should take when a client expresses anxiety about an upcoming procedure?

When a client expresses anxiety about an upcoming procedure, the first and foremost step a nurse should take is to listen to the client's concerns. Active listening establishes a trusting therapeutic relationship and provides an opportunity for the client to express their feelings and fears. This practice not only helps the nurse assess the level and source of anxiety but also validates the client’s emotions, allowing them to feel heard and understood.

By listening carefully, the nurse can gather essential information about what specifically is causing the client's anxiety, whether it's fear of pain, fear of the unknown, or concerns about outcomes. This understanding can then guide further interventions, such as providing information tailored to address those specific fears, offering reassurance, or discussing coping strategies. Listening opens the door to effective communication and care that is client-centered, making it a critical first step in managing anxiety.