How can you assist someone experiencing anxiety during a medical emergency?

Speaking calmly and reassuring someone during a medical emergency is essential for several reasons. When an individual is experiencing anxiety, they may feel overwhelmed by the situation, which can exacerbate their symptoms and make it more difficult for them to respond to treatment. By providing calm reassurance, you can help to alleviate their anxiety and create an environment that fosters cooperation and understanding.

Reassuring someone communicates that you are in control of the situation and that you are there to help them. This can instill a sense of safety and trust, allowing them to focus on following your instructions. Additionally, speaking calmly helps maintain a level of composure that can prevent further escalation of their anxiety, ensuring that they remain as stable as possible during the emergency.

Other responses, such as ignoring their feelings or telling them to be quiet, could contribute to increased anxiety and feelings of helplessness. Encouraging them to not think about the situation may not be practical, as anxiety often makes it difficult for individuals to control their thoughts. Therefore, the best approach is to offer calm reassurance, which directly supports their emotional well-being while moving forward with necessary treatment.