A nurse is reinforcing teaching with a client about a new prescription for lithium.
Which of the following statements should the nurse include in the teaching?

The rationale for Choice A:

Limiting time for rituals to 30 minutes each day may not be effective and could potentially increase anxiety. Individuals with OCD often feel a strong compulsion to perform their rituals, and abruptly restricting their ability to do so can heighten distress and lead to increased attempts to engage in the rituals, even in a covert manner. This can create a cycle of anxiety and frustration.

Gradual exposure and response prevention (ERP) therapy is a more effective approach to reducing ritualistic behaviors. It involves gradually exposing the individual to anxiety-provoking stimuli while helping them to resist engaging in their compulsions. This process is done in a controlled and supportive environment, to help the individual learn to manage their anxiety and reduce their reliance on rituals.

Rationale for Choice B:

Providing a stimulating environment is not generally recommended for individuals with OCD. Excessive stimulation can exacerbate anxiety and trigger compulsive behaviors. A calmer and more structured environment is often more beneficial.

Individuals with OCD often thrive in environments that provide predictability and a sense of control. A structured schedule can help to reduce uncertainty and create a sense of order, which can in turn help to reduce anxiety and the urge to engage in compulsive behaviors. Rationale for Choice C:

Negative reinforcement is not an appropriate or effective intervention for OCD. It involves punishing or removing a desired stimulus in response to a behavior, with the aim of decreasing the likelihood of that behavior occurring again. However, this approach can be counterproductive in OCD, as it can increase anxiety and make the individual more likely to engage in their rituals in order to avoid the negative consequences.

Positive reinforcement, such as praise and encouragement, is more effective in promoting desired behaviors. This approach focuses on rewarding the individual for making progress in reducing their ritualistic behaviors, which can help to increase motivation and create a more positive and supportive environment for change.

Rationale for Choice D:

Providing a structured schedule of activities can be a very effective intervention for OCD. It can help to reduce anxiety, provide a sense of control, and minimize the time available for engaging in compulsive rituals.

A structured schedule can include a variety of activities, such as:

Mealtimes

Personal hygiene routines

Work or school activities

Leisure activities

Relaxation exercises

Social interactions

The schedule should be tailored to the individual's specific needs and preferences. It is important to ensure that the activities are enjoyable and meaningful to the individual, as this will increase their motivation to participate.

The nurse can work with the individual to develop a schedule that is realistic and achievable. The schedule should be reviewed and adjusted regularly as the individual makes progress.

Choice A rationale:

Medication compliance is crucial in the management of BPD because:

Instability and Impulsivity: Individuals with BPD often struggle with impulsivity and unstable moods, which can lead to inconsistent medication adherence. They may forget to take their medications, take them at the wrong times, or stop taking them altogether when they feel better or worse. This can disrupt the therapeutic effects of the medications and increase the risk of relapse or worsening symptoms.

Multiple Medications: BPD is often treated with a combination of medications, such as mood stabilizers, antidepressants, and antipsychotics. Each medication has its own unique dosing schedule, side effects, and potential for interactions. Monitoring compliance ensures that the client is taking all medications as prescribed, reducing the risk of adverse events and optimizing treatment outcomes.

Mental Health Stigma: Unfortunately, mental health stigma can contribute to medication noncompliance. Individuals with BPD may feel ashamed or embarrassed about their diagnosis, leading them to hide their medication use or avoid taking medications altogether. By openly discussing medication compliance and addressing any concerns, nurses can help reduce stigma and promote adherence.

Therapeutic Relationship: A strong therapeutic relationship between the nurse and client is essential for promoting medication compliance in BPD. Nurses can foster trust and open communication by:

Actively listening to the client's concerns about medications.

Providing clear and concise education about the purpose and benefits of medications.

Collaborating with the client to develop a medication regimen that fits their lifestyle and preferences.

Regularly assessing medication adherence and addressing any barriers to compliance.

Offering support and encouragement to the client throughout the treatment process.