A nurse is providing care for a client with obsessive-compulsive disorder (OCD) Which statement by the nurse would be most appropriate in this situation?

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.

Choice A rationale:

The nurse should not tell the client to stop their behaviors immediately, as this approach is likely to increase anxiety and distress. Individuals with obsessive-compulsive disorder (OCD) often find it challenging to abruptly stop their compulsions, and attempting to do so can lead to heightened anxiety.

Choice B rationale:

Distracting oneself from the urge to perform compulsions might provide temporary relief, but it does not address the underlying issues of OCD. It is essential to work on strategies that target the reduction of compulsions and the management of anxiety associated with them.

Choice C rationale:

Giving in to compulsions might temporarily relieve anxiety, but it reinforces the cycle of OCD behavior. Encouraging the client to give in to compulsions is counterproductive to the treatment of OCD, which involves breaking the pattern of compulsive behavior.

Choice D rationale:

This is the correct choice. Collaboratively developing strategies to gradually reduce compulsive behaviors is a standard approach in treating OCD. This method is aligned with exposure and response prevention therapy, a well-established treatment for OCD. By gradually facing the situations that trigger obsessive thoughts and then refraining from performing compulsions, clients can learn to manage their anxiety and reduce their reliance on compulsive behaviors.