A client with a long history of migraine headaches asks the nurse if there are non-pharmaceutical ways to help obtain pain relief.
Which intervention should the nurse offer?

The correct answer is choice B. “You seem quite frightened right now.”.

Choice A rationale:

While reassuring the client that no one will hurt them is well-intentioned, it may not effectively address the client’s immediate emotional state or validate their feelings.

Choice B rationale:

Acknowledging the client’s fear helps validate their emotions and opens a pathway for further therapeutic communication. It shows empathy and understanding, which can help build trust and provide comfort.

Choice C rationale:

Telling the client they are in a safe place is reassuring, but it may not fully address the client’s immediate emotional distress or validate their feelings.

Choice D rationale:

Asking the client what they would like the nurse to do to protect them might reinforce the delusion and could potentially escalate the situation. It is more effective to acknowledge the client’s feelings and provide reassurance.

Choice A rationale:

"Phobias are characterized by persistent and irrational fear" (Choice A) is an accurate statement. Phobias are defined by the presence of an intense and irrational fear of a specific object or situation. This fear is persistent and often leads to avoidance behaviors, which can significantly impact the individual's daily life.

Choice B rationale:

"Phobias can be caused by biological factors only" (Choice B) is an inaccurate statement. Phobias can have various causes, including both biological and psychological factors. While there may be genetic predispositions to certain phobias, psychological factors, such as traumatic experiences or learned behaviors, can also contribute to the development of phobias.

Choice C rationale:

"Phobias can be diagnosed based on physical symptoms" (Choice C) is an inaccurate statement. Phobias are typically diagnosed based on the individual's reported symptoms, such as intense fear and avoidance behaviors. There are no specific physical symptoms that directly indicate the presence of a phobia.

Choice D rationale:

"Phobias can be managed with medication alone" (Choice D) is an inaccurate statement. Medication alone is not considered the primary treatment for phobias. While medications like selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors (SSRIs) or benzodiazepines may be prescribed to alleviate anxiety symptoms, the most effective treatment for phobias is psychotherapy, particularly exposure therapy or cognitive-behavioral therapy. These therapies address the root causes of the phobia and help individuals learn to manage their fear.