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 D
Explanation
Choice A reason: Serotonin affects many functions, but metabolism is not directly influenced by serotonin.
Choice B reason: While serotonin can indirectly affect heart rate, it is not the primary neurological function it affects.
Choice C reason: Serotonin does not primarily affect reflexes.
Choice D reason: This is the correct choice. Serotonin is well known for its role in regulating mood, and imbalances can lead to mood disorders.
Correct Answer is D
Explanation
Choice A reason: Engaging in activities might be too demanding during a panic atack and could potentially exacerbate the client's anxiety.
Choice B reason: While medication may be part of the treatment plan, the immediate priority is to ensure the client's safety and comfort, which is best achieved by staying with them.
Choice C reason: Offering therapy in the midst of a panic atack is not practical; the immediate need is to help the client feel safe and manage their acute symptoms.
Choice D reason: Staying with the client to assess their needs is the most appropriate immediate intervention to ensure safety and provide reassurance during a panic atack.
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