A registered nurse is caring for a client who has been diagnosed with obsessive-compulsive disorder (OCD) and is constantly picking up after others in the day room. The nurse should recognize that the client uses this behavior to do which of the following?
Decrease anxiety to a tolerable level.
Focus attention on meaningful tasks,
Limit the amount of time available to interact with others.
Manipulate and control others' behaviors.
The Correct Answer is A
Individuals with OCD often engage in compulsive behaviors as a way to reduce anxiety or distress. In this case, the client’s behavior of constantly picking up after others in the day room may be a compulsion that helps them decrease their anxiety to a tolerable level.
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Related Questions
Correct Answer is C
Explanation
Therapeutic communication involves actively listening to the client, demonstrating empathy, and using open-ended questions to encourage the client to express their thoughts and feelings.
Reflecting (option a) and listening attentively (option b) are both examples of effective therapeutic communication techniques as they demonstrate active listening and empathy.
However, offering advice (option c) is a barrier to therapeutic communication because it implies that the nurse knows what is best for the client and can solve their problems for them.
This can create a power dynamic in the nurse-client relationship and may discourage the client from expressing their true thoughts and feelings. Giving information (option d) can be an important aspect of therapeutic communication, but it should be done in a way that respects the client's autonomy and involves collaboration rather than giving directives.
Correct Answer is C
Explanation
When caring for a client with obsessive-compulsive disorder (OCD), it is important for the nurse to understand that the client’s compulsive behaviors are a way for them to manage their anxiety and distress. Rather than trying to confront or eliminate these behaviors, the nurse should work with the client to develop a schedule that allows time for their rituals while also incorporating other activities and treatments.
Option a. Confront the client about the senseless nature of repetitive behaviors is not a helpful intervention because it may increase the client’s anxiety and distress.
Option b. Isolate the client for a period of time is not a helpful intervention because it does not address the underlying causes of the client’s compulsive behaviors.
Option d. Set very strict limits on the behaviors so that the client can conform to the unit rules and schedules is not a helpful intervention because it may increase the client’s anxiety and distress and may interfere with their ability to participate in treatment.
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