A nurse is planning care for a client with a phobia.
Which nursing intervention is appropriate for this client?

Choice A rationale:

Avocados and cheese are not specifically recommended for a client with a postoperative wound infection. While a balanced diet is important for overall health, yogurt or buttermilk is a better choice due to their probiotic content, which may promote gut health and support the immune system.

Choice B rationale:

Fresh fruits are generally a healthy dietary choice, but they are not particularly relevant to the management of a postoperative wound infection. The emphasis for this client should be on foods that support wound healing and immune function, such as yogurt or buttermilk.

Choice D rationale:

Green leafy vegetables are rich in vitamins and minerals, but they are not a primary focus for a client with a postoperative wound infection. Again, the emphasis should be on foods that support the immune system and overall recovery, such as yogurt or buttermilk.

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.