A Patient Fearfully Runs from Chair to Chair Crying, "They're

Multiple Choice

A patient fearfully runs from chair to chair crying, "They're coming! They're coming!" The patient does not follow the staff's directions or respond to verbal interventions. The initial nursing intervention of highest priority is to

A) provide for the patient's safety.
B) encourage clarification of feelings.
C) respect the patient's personal space.
D) offer an outlet for the patient's energy.