Which of the following statements accurately describes the diagnostic criteria for phobias?

Choice C rationale:

Collaborating with the client to set realistic and achievable goals for overcoming phobias (Choice C) is an example of a nursing intervention for phobias. This empowers the client to actively participate in their treatment, fostering a sense of control and motivation to confront their fears.

Choice A rationale:

Providing a safe and supportive environment for the client (Choice A) is important, but it is a more general intervention that doesn't specifically address the process of overcoming phobias.

Choice B rationale:

Encouraging the client to avoid situations that trigger phobic responses (Choice B) is counterproductive, as mentioned earlier. It reinforces avoidance behaviors rather than helping the client confront their fears.

Choice D rationale:

Referring the client to other health care professionals as needed (Choice D) is a potential step in the treatment process, but it doesn't exemplify a direct nursing intervention for phobias. It's more about coordinating care if specialized help is required.

Choice A rationale:

The client's fear of flying in airplanes and the intense panic response when even thinking about it are indicative of a specific phobia. Specific phobias involve an intense and irrational fear of a specific object, situation, or activity. In this case, the fear of flying is specific and triggers a significant anxiety reaction.

Choice B rationale:

Social phobia (also known as social anxiety disorder) involves an excessive fear of social situations where the individual fears being scrutinized or judged by others. This fear extends beyond a specific object or situation, which is not the case in this scenario.

Choice C rationale:

Agoraphobia involves a fear of situations where escape might be difficult or help might not be available if a panic attack occurs. This fear often leads to avoidance of various places or situations, such as crowded spaces. The client's fear of flying is not characteristic of agoraphobia.

Choice D rationale:

Panic disorder is characterized by recurrent and unexpected panic attacks, often accompanied by a fear of having additional attacks. While the client does experience panic symptoms related to the fear of flying, the primary issue is the specific fear of flying itself, suggesting a specific phobia rather than panic disorder.