How should a PCT respond to a patient experiencing a panic attack?

Staying calm, offering reassurance, and encouraging deep breathing is the most effective response for a PCT when a patient is experiencing a panic attack. This approach focuses on providing emotional support, which is crucial during a panic attack when a patient may feel overwhelmed and frightened. By remaining calm, the PCT can help create a stable environment that reassures the patient, reducing feelings of anxiety.

Encouraging deep breathing is particularly important as it can help regulate the patient's breathing pattern, which may become fast and shallow during a panic attack. Deep breathing techniques can help reset the body's stress response and promote relaxation, making it an essential part of the immediate care strategy.

This response effectively addresses the emotional and physical symptoms of a panic attack, supporting the patient in regaining their composure and feeling safe. The other options do not provide the necessary emotional support or practical techniques that can help during such an episode.