A nurse is discussing pharmacological interventions for treating OCDs with a group of patients. Which statement accurately describes the role of selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors (SSRIs) in OCD treatment?

Choice A rationale:

Impaired social interaction. This choice is not the most appropriate nursing diagnosis for a client with obsessive-compulsive disorder (OCD) experiencing recurrent thoughts about contamination. OCD primarily involves anxiety-driven behaviors and rituals rather than impaired social interaction.

Choice B rationale:

Anxiety. This is the correct answer. Given that the client is experiencing recurrent thoughts about contamination, the most appropriate nursing diagnosis is anxiety. OCD is characterized by intrusive thoughts and rituals driven by anxiety. Addressing the anxiety component is essential for effective treatment.

Choice C rationale:

Risk for self-harm. While individuals with severe OCD may experience distress, the given information does not indicate an immediate risk for self-harm. Anxiety is the more relevant issue in this scenario.

Choice D rationale:

Obsessive-compulsive disorder. This choice describes the client's condition rather than a nursing diagnosis. Nursing diagnoses are used to identify specific client problems that nurses can address through care and interventions.

Choice A rationale:

The statement that medication will provide immediate relief from all symptoms is an overgeneralization. While medication can help alleviate symptoms, the relief might not be immediate and might not cover all symptoms comprehensively.

Choice B rationale:

Medication modifying self-image and values is not a recognized benefit of pharmacological treatment for OCD. This choice does not align with the established mechanisms of action of the medications used for OCD.

Choice C rationale:

The correct answer. Medication's potential to reduce the severity of obsessions and compulsions is a relevant benefit to highlight. While it might not eliminate symptoms entirely, it can make them more manageable and improve the individual's overall quality of life.

Choice D rationale:

The statement that medication will eliminate the need for any psychotherapeutic interventions is overly optimistic. A comprehensive treatment approach for OCD often includes a combination of medication and psychotherapy for optimal results.