Psychiatric Medications Q 30
Nurse Lynnette notices that a female client with obsessive-compulsive disorder washes her hands for long periods each day. How should the nurse respond to this compulsive behavior?
A. By designating times during which the client can focus on the behavior.
B. By urging the client to reduce the frequency of the behavior as rapidly as possible.
C. By calling attention to or attempting to prevent the behavior.
D. By discouraging the client from verbalizing anxieties.
Correct Answer: A. By designating times during which the client can focus on the behavior.
The nurse should designate times during which the client can focus on compulsive behavior or obsessive thoughts. Gradually limit the amount of time allotted for ritualistic behavior as the client becomes more involved in unit activities. Anxiety is minimized when the client is able to replace ritualistic behaviors with more adaptive ones.
Option B: The nurse should urge the client to reduce the frequency of the compulsive behavior gradually, not rapidly. During the beginning of treatment, allow plenty of time for rituals. Do not be judgmental or verbalize disapproval of the behavior. To deny the client this activity can precipitate panic level of anxiety.
Option C: She shouldn’t call attention to or try to prevent the behavior. Trying to prevent the behavior may cause pain and terror to the client. Support and encourage the client’s efforts to explore the meaning and purpose of the behavior. The client may be unaware of the relationship between emotional problems and compulsive behaviors. Recognition and acceptance of problems are important before a change can occur.
Option D: The nurse should encourage the client to verbalize anxieties to help distract attention from the compulsive behavior. Encourage the recognition of situations that provoke obsessive thoughts or ritualistic behaviors. Recognition of precipitating factors is the first step in teaching the client to interrupt escalation of anxiety.