A nurse is caring for a client with a specific phobia. Which statement by the nurse is accurate regarding phobias?
"Phobias are characterized by persistent and irrational fear.".
"Phobias can be caused by biological factors only.".
"Phobias can be diagnosed based on physical symptoms.".
"Phobias can be managed with medication alone.".
The Correct Answer is A
Choice A rationale:
This statement accurately captures the key features of phobias. Phobias involve intense, irrational fear reactions to specific objects or situations that persist over time. The fear is often excessive in relation to the actual threat posed by the phobic stimulus.
Choice B rationale:
The statement "Phobias can be caused by biological factors only" (choice B) is not accurate. While biological factors like genetics and brain chemistry can contribute to the development of phobias, they are not the sole cause. Psychological and environmental factors also play significant roles.
Choice C rationale:
The statement "Phobias can be diagnosed based on physical symptoms" (choice C) is incorrect. Phobias are diagnosed based on psychological symptoms, such as intense fear, avoidance behavior, and distress. Physical symptoms may accompany the fear response but are not the primary diagnostic criteria.
Choice D rationale:
The statement "Phobias can be managed with medication alone" (choice D) is not entirely accurate. While medication can help alleviate symptoms of anxiety associated with phobias, the most effective treatments often involve psychotherapy, particularly exposure therapy, to address the underlying fear response and promote lasting change.
Nursing Test Bank
Naxlex Comprehensive Predictor Exams
Related Questions
Correct Answer is C
Explanation
Choice A rationale:
This choice describes social anxiety disorder, where the individual fears being judged negatively by others in social situations. It doesn't reflect a specific phobia, which involves a marked and persistent fear of a specific object or situation.
Choice B rationale:
This statement indicates agoraphobia, which is the fear of being in places where escape might be difficult or help unavailable. It doesn't align with the criteria for a specific phobia, where the fear is directed at a specific object or situation.
Choice C rationale:
The correct answer. This choice represents a specific phobia. The fear of spiders is a classic example of a specific phobia, and the extreme anxiety triggered by the sight of a spider indicates an irrational and disproportionate fear response, which is characteristic of this condition.
Choice D rationale:
This statement describes aviophobia, the fear of flying. While it is a phobia, it doesn't cover the full spectrum of specific phobias, which can involve a wide range of objects or situations beyond just flying.
Correct Answer is C
Explanation
Choice A rationale:
Antidepressants (Choice A) are not typically the first-line medication class for treating specific phobias. While they may be used in some cases, they are not the primary choice for addressing the symptoms of phobias.
Choice B rationale:
Benzodiazepines (Choice B) are sometimes used to manage acute anxiety symptoms, but they are generally not recommended for long-term treatment of specific phobias due to the risk of dependence and potential side effects.
Choice C rationale:
Beta-blockers (Choice C) can be useful in managing the physical symptoms of anxiety, such as rapid heartbeat and trembling, which often accompany phobias. They work by blocking the effects of adrenaline, reducing the "fight or flight" response. This can help the client feel more physically at ease when confronting their phobic stimulus.
Choice D rationale:
Analgesics (Choice D) are pain-relieving medications and have no direct relevance to treating phobias. They do not address the underlying fear and anxiety associated with phobias.
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