A nurse is caring for a client with OCD who is receiving cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT) Which of the following interventions is the nurse most likely to use?
Exposure and response prevention.
Systematic desensitization.
Flooding.
Thought stopping.
The Correct Answer is A
Choice A rationale:
Exposure and response prevention is a cornerstone of cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT) for OCD. It involves exposing the individual to anxiety-provoking situations (exposure) and then preventing the usual compulsive response that reduces anxiety (response prevention) This helps the individual learn that their feared outcomes are unlikely to occur and that their anxiety will diminish over time without engaging in rituals.
Choice B rationale:
Systematic desensitization is a technique used to treat phobias and anxiety disorders by gradually exposing the individual to their feared stimuli while teaching relaxation techniques. While it may have some applicability in OCD treatment, it is not as directly aligned with the core features of OCD as exposure and response prevention.
Choice C rationale:
Flooding is a therapeutic technique that involves exposing the individual to an extreme level of their fear in order to diminish the anxiety response over time. While this approach might be used in certain anxiety disorders, it is not typically the first-line intervention for OCD. Exposure and response prevention is a more gradual and controlled technique that is better suited for OCD treatment.
Choice D rationale:
Thought stopping involves interrupting obsessive thoughts by using cues or distractions. This technique is not as effective in treating OCD as exposure and response prevention, which directly addresses the connection between obsessions and compulsions. Thought stopping may not provide the individual with a comprehensive strategy for managing their OCD symptoms.
Nursing Test Bank
Naxlex Comprehensive Predictor Exams
Related Questions
Correct Answer is B
Explanation
Choice A rationale:
Teaching the client about the history of OCD might provide insight into the disorder's background, but it is not the priority when the client is currently experiencing distress. Addressing the immediate distress takes precedence over historical information.
Choice B rationale:
This choice is correct because relaxation techniques can help alleviate the client's distress in the moment. These techniques, such as deep breathing, progressive muscle relaxation, or mindfulness exercises, can help the client manage their anxiety and reduce the impact of obsessive thoughts.
Choice C rationale:
While providing information about medication options is important, it might not be the initial intervention when the client is in a state of distress. Medication discussions are typically part of a comprehensive treatment plan and should be addressed after addressing the client's immediate distress.
Choice D rationale:
Initiating exposure therapy sessions might exacerbate the client's distress at this point. Exposure therapy involves deliberately confronting feared situations, and it's important to prepare the client for this type of intervention before initiating it. Starting with relaxation techniques is a more appropriate approach.
Correct Answer is C
Explanation
Choice A rationale:
While genetic factors can contribute to the development of OCD, stating that it is solely caused by genetic factors oversimplifies the etiology. OCD is a complex disorder with multiple factors, including genetic, neurobiological, cognitive, and environmental influences.
Choice B rationale:
This statement is incorrect. Exposure therapy is a highly effective treatment for OCD. It involves controlled and systematic exposure to feared stimuli, which helps individuals reduce their anxiety responses over time.
Choice C rationale:
This choice is correct because selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors (SSRIs) are indeed commonly used as a first-line pharmacological treatment for OCD. These medications help regulate serotonin levels in the brain, which can reduce the frequency and intensity of obsessions and compulsions.
Choice D rationale:
Cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT) is actually recommended as one of the most effective treatments for OCD. CBT, including exposure and response prevention, helps individuals learn to manage their symptoms by changing maladaptive thought patterns and behaviors associated with OCD. Therefore, stating that CBT is not recommended is inaccurate.
Whether you are a student looking to ace your exams or a practicing nurse seeking to enhance your expertise , our nursing education contents will empower you with the confidence and competence to make a difference in the lives of patients and become a respected leader in the healthcare field.
Visit Naxlex, invest in your future and unlock endless possibilities with our unparalleled nursing education contents today
Report Wrong Answer on the Current Question
Do you disagree with the answer? If yes, what is your expected answer? Explain.
Kindly be descriptive with the issue you are facing.