A nurse is assessing a client with a phobia. Which non-pharmacological therapy should the nurse recommend to help the client cope with their fear?

Choice A rationale:

Exposure therapy is indeed a form of cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT) It involves systematically exposing individuals to the feared object or situation in a controlled and gradual manner. The goal is to reduce their anxiety or fear response over time through repeated exposures. By confronting their fears, individuals can learn that their anxiety decreases over time, leading to behavioral changes.

Choice B rationale:

While cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT) often includes challenging irrational thoughts and beliefs, exposure therapy primarily focuses on the behavioral aspect of fear reduction through systematic exposure. Cognitive restructuring, which addresses irrational beliefs, is a distinct component of CBT but not the primary emphasis of exposure therapy.

Choice C rationale:

Exposure therapy does not inherently involve teaching clients relaxation techniques. Instead, it centers on controlled exposure to the feared stimulus to weaken the fear response. Relaxation techniques might be used in some cases to help manage anxiety, but they are not a defining characteristic of exposure therapy.

Choice D rationale:

Although exposure therapy can be effective for various phobias, it is not exclusive to social phobias. It can be applied to specific phobias, agoraphobia, and other anxiety disorders as well.

Choice A rationale:

Establishing a therapeutic relationship with the client based on trust, empathy, respect, and acceptance (Choice A) is a crucial nursing intervention for phobias. This helps create a foundation of trust and safety, allowing the client to feel understood and supported in addressing their phobic responses.

Choice B rationale:

Providing a safe and supportive environment for the client (Choice B) is another essential intervention. This environment enables the client to feel secure and encourages them to explore their fears gradually, knowing they are in a protected setting.

Choice C rationale:

Encouraging the client to avoid situations that trigger phobic responses (Choice C) is not a recommended intervention. Avoidance can reinforce the phobia and hinder progress in overcoming it. Encouraging gradual exposure to feared situations is a more effective strategy.

Choice D rationale:

Assisting the client to identify and challenge irrational thoughts and beliefs (Choice D) is an evidence-based intervention. This approach, known as cognitive-behavioral therapy, helps clients recognize and modify distorted thought patterns that contribute to their phobias.

Choice E rationale:

Implementing exposure therapy with the client (Choice E) is a valid intervention for phobias. Exposure therapy involves gradually exposing the client to the feared object or situation in a controlled manner, helping them desensitize and reduce their fear response.