A client who is receiving radiation treatment for laryngeal cancer has developed xerostomia and mucositis.

The nurse determines the client has an imbalanced nutritional intake and is consuming less than body requirements.

Which factor is the most likely cause for this problem?

Choice A rationale:

Encouraging the client to face their fear gradually is an appropriate nursing intervention for a client with a phobia. This approach is consistent with exposure therapy, which is a widely recognized and effective treatment for phobias. Exposure therapy involves gradually exposing the client to the feared object or situation in a controlled and supportive environment. By doing so, the client can learn to confront and manage their fear over time. This approach is evidence-based and helps the client build resilience and reduce anxiety.

Choice B rationale:

Administering benzodiazepines as needed for acute anxiety (Choice B) is not the first-line treatment for phobias. While benzodiazepines can provide temporary relief from anxiety symptoms, they do not address the underlying phobia and can lead to dependence and tolerance with prolonged use. Moreover, they are generally reserved for acute anxiety episodes and not considered a primary treatment for phobias.

Choice C rationale:

Providing psychoeducation about the causes and effects of phobias (Choice C) is a valuable component of treatment, but it alone may not be sufficient. Psychoeducation can help clients understand the nature of their phobia and reduce stigma, but it should be combined with evidence-based therapies like exposure therapy for comprehensive care.

Choice D rationale:

Teaching the client relaxation techniques to manage anxiety (Choice D) can be a helpful adjunct to treatment, but it is not the primary intervention for phobias. Relaxation techniques can be part of a broader strategy to reduce anxiety, but the client also needs exposure therapy or cognitive-behavioral therapy to address the phobia directly.

Choice A rationale:

Asking questions in a vague, non-specific format is not the best approach for addressing intimate partner violence. This approach may confuse the client or make them feel uncomfortable, as they may not know what specific information the nurse is seeking. It is essential to use clear and direct communication when addressing sensitive issues like intimate partner violence.

Choice B rationale:

Beginning with questions that are less sensitive in nature is the preferred approach when interviewing a client about intimate partner violence. This allows the nurse to establish rapport and build trust with the client before delving into more sensitive topics. Starting with less sensitive questions can help the client feel more comfortable and willing to share information about their situation.

Choice C rationale:

Getting the most difficult questions over with first is not the best approach when addressing intimate partner violence. Starting with the most challenging questions may cause the client to become defensive or unwilling to cooperate. It is essential to build a therapeutic relationship before discussing sensitive topics to ensure the client's emotional safety and willingness to disclose information.

Choice D rationale:

Sharing personal values to put the client at ease is not an appropriate approach when addressing intimate partner violence. It can be perceived as unprofessional and may compromise the objectivity and neutrality of the nurse in providing care. The focus should be on the client's needs and concerns, not the nurse's personal beliefs.