A client is admitted for a drug overdose with a barbiturate. Which is the priority nursing action when planning care for this client?

B. Systematic desensitization is a behavioral therapy technique used to treat phobias, anxiety disorders, and other fear-related conditions. It involves exposing the individual to the feared stimulus or situation gradually, starting with less anxiety-provoking scenarios and progressing to more challenging ones, while simultaneously teaching relaxation techniques to reduce anxiety.

Systematic desensitization is considered a more gentle and controlled approach compared to flooding and is often preferred for individuals with specific phobias or moderate levels of anxiety.

A. Flooding is a behavioral therapy technique that involves exposing the individual to the feared stimulus or situation at full intensity, without any gradual buildup or relaxation techniques. However, flooding can be highly distressing and overwhelming for some individuals, and it may not be suitable for everyone, especially those with severe anxiety or trauma-related disorders.

C. Cognitive restructuring is a cognitive-behavioral therapy technique used to identify and challenge irrational or negative thoughts and beliefs that contribute to emotional distress or maladaptive behaviors. While cognitive restructuring may be incorporated into treatment for anxiety disorders, it focuses more on addressing cognitive distortions rather than directly exposing the individual to feared stimuli or teaching relaxation techniques.

D. Combination therapy refers to the use of multiple therapeutic approaches or techniques simultaneously or sequentially to address a client's psychological symptoms or concerns. While combination therapy may involve elements of systematic desensitization, cognitive restructuring, and other techniques, it does not represent a specific therapeutic approach or technique on its own.

D. It acknowledges the client’s comfort while emphasizing the nurse’s professional role. It sets clear boundaries and reinforces that the nurse’s primary purpose is to provide care and support within the therapeutic context.

A. This response acknowledges the client’s feelings but does not set clear boundaries. It may

inadvertently encourage the client to view the nurse as a friend rather than a professional caregiver.

B. While this response establishes boundaries, it may come across as abrupt or cold. It lacks empathy and understanding.

C. This response reflects empathy and encourages further exploration of the client’s feelings. However, it does not address the professional boundaries explicitly.