A patient with a phobia asks, "What is desensitization therapy?" The best response is:
Exposing the patient to an anxiety-producing stimulus for one to two hours (flooding).
Teaching the patient to ignore or become immune to anxiety-producing situations.
A cognitive technique for replacing a worry with a positive statement.
A systematic way to replace a panic response with a relaxation response.
The Correct Answer is D
Choice A reason: This choice is incorrect. Flooding is a different technique from desensitization and involves intense and immediate exposure to the feared stimulus, which can be overwhelming and is not the gradual approach used in desensitization.
Choice B reason: This choice is incorrect. Simply teaching a patient to ignore or become immune to anxiety- producing situations does not address the underlying fear and is not a technique used in desensitization therapy.
Choice C reason: This choice is incorrect. While cognitive techniques may be part of a broader therapeutic approach, they are not the same as desensitization, which specifically involves gradual exposure combined with relaxation techniques.
Choice D reason: This is the correct choice. Desensitization therapy, also known as systematic desensitization, is a behavioral therapy technique that involves gradually exposing the patient to the feared object or situation while teaching them relaxation techniques to overcome their anxiety.
Nursing Test Bank
Naxlex Comprehensive Predictor Exams
Related Questions
Correct Answer is C
Explanation
Choice A reason: Multiple motor and vocal tics are more characteristic of Tourete syndrome, not autism spectrum disorder.
Choice B reason: Overly atached behavior is not typically associated with autism spectrum disorder; individuals with ASD often have difficulty with social atachments.
Choice C reason: This is correct. Individuals with autism spectrum disorder often prefer solitary activities and may show limited interest in social interactions.
Choice D reason: An irresistible urge to pull out one's hair is indicative of trichotillomania, not autism spectrum disorder.
Correct Answer is D
Explanation
Choice A reason: Teaching relaxation techniques after medication may not be as effective because the client might be under the influence of the medication, which could interfere with learning the techniques.
Choice B reason: Atempting to teach relaxation techniques during a ritual can increase the client's anxiety and resistance, as rituals are often used by individuals with OCD to manage their anxiety.
Choice C reason: While bedtime could be a calm time, it's not specifically targeted towards managing anxiety levels, which is crucial for clients with OCD.
Choice D reason: Teaching relaxation techniques when the client is experiencing low anxiety levels is most beneficial. The client is more likely to be receptive and retain the information, which can then be applied during higher anxiety periods.
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