A nurse is educating a group of nursing students about the differential diagnosis of obsessive-compulsive disorders (OCDs) in comparison to other mental disorders. Which factor helps differentiate OCDs from other mental disorders?

Choice A rationale:

Encouraging suppression of the urge to pull hair might worsen the client's anxiety and tension associated with trichotillomania. This approach may not address the underlying issues and could lead to increased distress.

Choice B rationale:

Camouflaging hair loss can be a practical approach, but it does not address the compulsive behavior itself. It focuses on hiding the consequences of the disorder rather than addressing the core issue.

Choice C rationale:

Assisting the client in finding replacement behaviors is the most appropriate intervention. This approach helps redirect the urge to pull hair into healthier alternatives, helping the client manage the compulsive behavior in a constructive manner.

Choice D rationale:

Avoiding mirrors might be counterproductive. For some individuals with trichotillomania, avoiding mirrors might increase anxiety and preoccupation, as they may feel disconnected from their appearance. It's important to address the underlying behavior rather than avoiding triggers.

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.