A nurse is caring for a client with a specific phobia.
Which statement by the nurse is accurate regarding phobias?

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:

Providing information about the client's healthcare power of attorney is not the most critical piece of information to report in this situation. The immediate concern is the client's change in mental status and potential medical emergency.

Choice B rationale:

While the reason for the client's admission is important background information, it is not the most urgent information to report in this situation. The priority is addressing the client's acute change in mental status.

Choice C rationale:

The nurse should be aware of the client's currently prescribed medications, but this information does not take precedence over the client's sudden onset of confusion and agitation. Immediate action is needed to address the client's altered mental status.

Choice D rationale:

Increasing confusion and agitation in a client who recently underwent ORIF of the right femur is a significant change in condition and may indicate a medical emergency such as infection, delirium, or other complications. This information should be provided first to alert the healthcare provider to the client's immediate needs.