A nurse is explaining the diagnostic criteria for obsessive-compulsive disorder (OCD) to a group of nursing students. Which of the following statements accurately reflects one of the criteria for diagnosing OCD?

The obsessions or compulsions are connected in a realistic way with what they are designed to neutralize or prevent.

The behaviors or mental acts are aimed at achieving perfectionism and high standards.

The disturbance must be attributable to the physiological effects of a substance or another medical condition.

The obsessive-compulsive symptoms are better explained by the symptoms of another mental disorder.

Answer and Explanation

The Correct Answer is A

Choice A rationale:

This choice accurately reflects one of the criteria for diagnosing OCD. The obsessions (intrusive and distressing thoughts) and compulsions (repetitive behaviors or mental acts) experienced by individuals with OCD are usually connected to what they are trying to neutralize or prevent. For instance, if someone has an obsessive fear of contamination, their compulsions might involve excessive hand washing to neutralize this fear.

Choice B rationale:

While perfectionism and high standards can be associated with OCD, they are not a primary diagnostic criterion. OCD is characterized by the presence of obsessions and compulsions that cause distress and significantly interfere with a person's daily life.

Choice C rationale:

This option is incorrect. The disturbance in OCD is not attributed to the physiological effects of substances or other medical conditions. It is a distinct mental health condition that is not solely a result of substance use or another medical issue.

Choice D rationale:

This option is incorrect. The symptoms of OCD should not be better explained by the symptoms of another mental disorder. While comorbidities can exist, OCD has its own unique set of obsessions and compulsions that differentiate it from other mental disorders.

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Correct Answer is C

Explanation

Choice A rationale:

Teach the client relaxation techniques. While teaching relaxation techniques can be beneficial, it may not directly address the client's compulsion to wash their hands repeatedly. OCD involves managing distressing thoughts and compulsions through specific interventions.

Choice B rationale:

Encourage the client to talk about their thoughts and feelings. While promoting open communication is generally important, it may not be the most effective intervention for directly addressing the client's compulsion to wash their hands. OCD interventions often involve exposure and response prevention strategies.

Choice C rationale:

Assist the client in developing a hierarchy of feared situations. This is the correct answer. Helping the client develop a hierarchy of feared situations is a key intervention in addressing OCD. This approach is part of exposure and response prevention therapy, where clients gradually face their fears without engaging in compulsive behaviors.

Choice D rationale:

Praise the client for decreasing the frequency of handwashing. While positive reinforcement can be useful, it may not be the priority intervention for someone with OCD. The focus should be on structured interventions that challenge and reduce the compulsive behaviors over time.

A. "It's okay, you don't have to wash your hands.” B. "I understand that you're feeling anxious. Let's talk about what's going on.” C. "You need to calm down and stop thinking about washing your hands.” D. "I'll help you wash your hands.”

Correct Answer is B

Explanation

Choice A rationale:

Telling the client "It's okay, you don't have to wash your hands" might invalidate the client's feelings and fears, leading to increased anxiety. The client's compulsion to wash their hands is driven by their obsessive thoughts, and dismissing this behavior can be counterproductive.

Choice B rationale:

The correct response acknowledges the client's anxiety and opens a conversation about their feelings. This approach helps build a therapeutic relationship and provides an opportunity for the client to express their concerns. It's essential to address the underlying anxieties associated with OCD to promote better coping strategies.

Choice C rationale:

Telling the client to "calm down and stop thinking about washing your hands" oversimplifies the situation. People with OCD often struggle with controlling their obsessive thoughts and compulsions, and such a directive can be ineffective and frustrating for the client.

Choice D rationale:

Offering to "help you wash your hands" reinforces the client's compulsion rather than addressing the root cause of their anxiety. Enabling their compulsive behavior can contribute to the maintenance of their OCD symptoms.

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A nurse is explaining the diagnostic criteria for obsessive-compulsive disorder (OCD) to a group of nursing students. Which of the following statements accurately reflects one of the criteria for diagnosing OCD?

Nursing Test Bank

Naxlex Comprehensive Predictor Exams

A nurse is caring for a client with OCD who has a compulsion to wash their hands repeatedly. Which of the following interventions should the nurse prioritize?

Correct Answer is C

Explanation

A nurse is caring for a client with OCD who is experiencing an anxiety attack. The client is saying, "I have to wash my hands! I have to wash my hands!" Which of the following responses should the nurse make?

Correct Answer is B

Explanation

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