A registered nurse in a mental health facility is planning care for a client who has obsessive-compulsive disorder (OCD) and is newly admitted to the unit. Which of the following actions should the nurse plan to take regarding the client's compulsive behaviors?
Confront the client about the senseless nature of repetitive behaviors.
Isolate the client for a period of time.
Plan the client's schedule to allow time for rituals.
Set very strict limits on the behaviors so that the client can conform to the unit rules and schedules.
The Correct Answer is C
When caring for a client with obsessive-compulsive disorder (OCD), it is important for the nurse to understand that the client’s compulsive behaviors are a way for them to manage their anxiety and distress. Rather than trying to confront or eliminate these behaviors, the nurse should work with the client to develop a schedule that allows time for their rituals while also incorporating other activities and treatments.
Option a. Confront the client about the senseless nature of repetitive behaviors is not a helpful intervention because it may increase the client’s anxiety and distress.
Option b. Isolate the client for a period of time is not a helpful intervention because it does not address the underlying causes of the client’s compulsive behaviors.
Option d. Set very strict limits on the behaviors so that the client can conform to the unit rules and schedules is not a helpful intervention because it may increase the client’s anxiety and distress and may interfere with their ability to participate in treatment.
Nursing Test Bank
Naxlex Comprehensive Predictor Exams
Related Questions
Correct Answer is A
Explanation
Borderline personality disorder is a serious mental illness characterized by instability in mood, behaviour, and self-image. Patients with borderline personality disorder are at a high risk of self-harm, suicide, and impulsive behaviours. Therefore, the nurse's priority assessment should be to identify any suicidal or homicidal ideations, as these can be life-threatening emergencies. Once identified, appropriate interventions should be initiated, such as suicide precautions, crisis management, and referral to mental health professionals for further evaluation and treatment.
While sleep patern changes, impulsive behaviours, and support systems are also important aspects to assess in patients with borderline personality disorder, they are not the priority when compared to suicidal or homicidal ideations.
Correct Answer is B
Explanation
Repetitive behaviors in individuals with OCD are often compulsions that are performed in an attempt to reduce anxiety or distress. These compulsions can take many forms, including repetitive actions such as applying and removing makeup. By engaging in these behaviors, the individual may feel a temporary reduction in anxiety or distress.
Whether you are a student looking to ace your exams or a practicing nurse seeking to enhance your expertise , our nursing education contents will empower you with the confidence and competence to make a difference in the lives of patients and become a respected leader in the healthcare field.
Visit Naxlex, invest in your future and unlock endless possibilities with our unparalleled nursing education contents today