A nurse is teaching a group of patients about treatment approaches for OCDs. Which statement accurately explains the rationale behind gradually increasing the dosage of medication during treatment?
"Higher medication doses are needed to quickly suppress all obsessive thoughts and compulsive behaviors.”
"Starting with a low dose helps minimize potential side effects and allows the body to adjust to the medication.”
"The goal is to achieve complete relief from obsessions and compulsions within a few days.”
"Higher doses are necessary to overcome the resistance often seen in individuals with OCD.”
The Correct Answer is B
Choice A rationale:
The statement that higher medication doses are needed to quickly suppress all obsessive thoughts and compulsive behaviors is not accurate. Medication dosages are adjusted based on individual response and tolerability, and the goal is not necessarily to use the highest dose possible.
Choice B rationale:
The correct answer. Starting with a low dose is a common practice in psychiatric medication management. This helps the body adjust to the medication gradually, reducing the likelihood and severity of side effects. As the body becomes accustomed to the medication, the dose can be gradually increased to achieve the desired therapeutic effect.
Choice C rationale:
The goal of achieving complete relief from obsessions and compulsions within a few days is an unrealistic expectation. Psychiatric medications typically require time to take effect, often several weeks, and complete relief might not occur for all individuals.
Choice D rationale:
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Correct Answer is A
Explanation
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.
Correct Answer is ["A","B","E"]
Explanation
Choice A rationale:
Encouraging the client to challenge negative thoughts is an effective cognitive-behavioral approach. It helps the client reframe their thinking patterns and build healthier self-esteem.
Choice B rationale:
Providing a list of alternative compulsions supports the client in finding healthier ways to cope with their anxiety. This can lead to a sense of accomplishment and improved self-esteem.
Choice C rationale:
Suggesting complete avoidance of anxiety triggers might seem helpful, but in the context of OCD, avoidance can reinforce the obsessions and compulsions. Gradual exposure and response prevention are evidence-based strategies.
Choice D rationale:
Assigning more exposure therapy sessions should be based on the client's progress and therapist's assessment. Increasing sessions solely for the sake of it might not be effective and could lead to frustration.
Choice E rationale:
Acknowledging the client's efforts in therapy fosters a positive therapeutic relationship and boosts their self-esteem. Recognizing progress and hard work encourages continued engagement in treatment.
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