A nurse is assessing a client with obsessive-compulsive disorder (OCD) The client reports that they have been having recurrent thoughts about contamination. Which of the following is the most appropriate nursing diagnosis for this client?

Choice A rationale:

Administering pain medication is not a relevant intervention for a patient with obsessive-compulsive disorder (OCD) OCD is a mental health disorder characterized by obsessions and compulsions, and administering pain medication would not address the core symptoms or needs of these patients.

Choice B rationale:

Providing emotional support is a valid intervention for a patient with OCD. Individuals with OCD often experience high levels of anxiety and distress due to their obsessive thoughts and compulsive behaviors. Offering emotional support can help the patient feel understood and less isolated, contributing to their overall well-being.

Choice C rationale:

Teaching relaxation techniques is also appropriate for patients with OCD. Relaxation techniques can help individuals manage their anxiety and stress, which are common features of OCD. These techniques, when incorporated into the patient's coping strategies, can contribute to reducing the severity of their symptoms.

Choice D rationale:

Assisting with physical therapy exercises is not directly relevant to the care of a patient with OCD. OCD primarily involves psychological and behavioral symptoms, and physical therapy exercises would not directly address the core concerns of these patients.

Choice E rationale:

Educating about nutrition is not a priority intervention for OCD patients. While maintaining overall health is important, nutritional education is not a central component of managing obsessive-compulsive disorder.

Choice A rationale:

The observation that the client's obsessions and compulsions are consistent with their self-image would not necessarily support the diagnosis of OCD. This could be applicable to other mental disorders as well, where the symptoms align with the individual's self-concept.

Choice B rationale:

If the client engages in compulsions to achieve pleasurable outcomes, this might suggest a different perspective. OCD compulsions are typically performed to alleviate distress or prevent a feared event, not for achieving pleasure.

Choice C rationale:

If the client's obsessions and compulsions are not causing significant distress, this could point towards other disorders or even potentially normal behavior. OCD is characterized by the distress caused by the obsessions and the urge to perform compulsions to alleviate this distress.

Choice D rationale:

The correct answer. In OCD, individuals are aware that their obsessions and compulsions are irrational and excessive. This self-awareness differentiates OCD from other disorders where the beliefs and behaviors might be seen as reasonable by the individual.