A nurse is planning care for a 10-month-old infant who is 8 hr postoperative following cleft palate repair. Which of the following interventions should the nurse include in the infant's plan of care?

A. Plan the client's schedule to allow time for rituals: This is the most appropriate action. It is essential to recognize that compulsive behaviors in OCD serve as coping mechanisms for the individual. Allowing time for rituals within the client's schedule can help reduce anxiety and provide a sense of control. Gradual exposure and response prevention techniques can be incorporated into the treatment plan over time to help the client gradually decrease reliance on rituals.

B. Isolate the client for a period of time: Isolating the client may exacerbate feelings of anxiety and distress, as well as decrease opportunities for social interaction and support, which are essential components of mental health treatment.

C. Confront the client about the senseless nature of the repetitive behaviors: Confrontation may lead to defensiveness and resistance from the client. It is important to approach the client with empathy and understanding rather than judgment. Educating the client about the nature of OCD and the role of compulsive behaviors in managing anxiety can be more helpful in fostering insight and motivation for change.

D. Set strict limits on the behaviors so that the client can conform to the unit rules and schedules: Setting strict limits may increase the client's distress and resistance. It is important to collaborate with the client in treatment planning and find a balance between supporting the client's needs and maintaining a therapeutic environment. Gradual exposure and response prevention techniques should be implemented in a supportive manner rather than through strict enforcement.

A. Using frequent touch to provide client support: While touch can be comforting for some clients, individuals with schizophrenia, especially those experiencing paranoid delusions, may interpret touch as threatening or intrusive. Therefore, using frequent touch may exacerbate the client's paranoia and increase their distress.

B. Directly telling the client that delusions are not real: Directly challenging the client's delusions may cause them to become defensive or agitated. It is unlikely to be effective in changing the client's beliefs and may damage the therapeutic relationship. Instead, the nurse should use therapeutic communication techniques to explore the client's perceptions and validate their feelings while gently offering alternative perspectives.

C. Limiting the number of questions asked during assessments: Individuals experiencing frequent hallucinations and paranoid delusions may have difficulty concentrating and processing information. Limiting the number of questions asked during assessments reduces cognitive overload and helps prevent overwhelming the client. The nurse should prioritize asking clear, concise questions relevant to the client's immediate needs.

D. Placing the client in seclusion if visual hallucinations are present: Seclusion should only be used as a last resort and when absolutely necessary to ensure the safety of the client or others. It is not an appropriate intervention for managing hallucinations alone. Instead, the nurse should employ therapeutic communication techniques, provide a safe and supportive environment, and use prescribed medications as indicated to manage the client's symptoms.