The nurse is working with a client who suffers from obsessive-compulsive disorder (OCD). The client has an obsession with the dangers of germs and performs compulsive hand washing hundreds of times per day. Which of the following should the nurse include in this client’s treatment plan?
Select all that apply.
The nurse is working with a client who suffers from obsessive-compulsive disorder (OCD). The client has an obsession with the dangers of germs and performs compulsive hand washing hundreds of times per day. Which of the following should the nurse include in this client’s treatment plan?
Select all that apply.
Statistics
Subject/Lesson
Subject
Mental Health
Lesson
Mental Health
Client Need
Test Plan
Psychosocial Integrity
Related Topic
Mental Health Concepts
Item Type
Item Type
Application
Explanation
Choices A, C, and E are correct.
- A is correct. Creating a schedule is one of the most critical aspects of treatment for clients with OCD. In this schedule, it is essential to allow time for the ritual - not allowing time for the compulsive activity will dramatically increase anxiety.
- C is correct. Adding time for meditation into the daily schedule is an appropriate intervention. Meditation is an excellent coping mechanism and can be added to replace some of the handwashing.
- E is correct. Selective serotonin reuptake inhibitor (SSRI) medications are commonly used to help clients manage compulsive behaviors. Examples of SSRIs include fluoxetine, fluvoxamine, and sertraline.
Choice B is incorrect. Teaching the client about the dangers of over-washing their hands is not practical or therapeutic. This client is using the ritual of handwashing unconsciously to relieve anxiety and is not likely to be any more inclined to stop even if they understand why it is bad for them.
Choice D is incorrect. Preventing the client from performing the compulsive ritual is not a therapeutic intervention for the client with OCD. Not allowing access to the sink to perform the behavior is likely to increase their anxiety.
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2 Key Topics
Obsessive Compulsive Disorder
32.3 Major Psychiatric Disorders
Additional Info
✔︎ Obsessive Compulsive Disorder (OCD) is a chronic condition involving recurrent, persistent, uncontrollable thoughts and/or compulsive behaviors which are used to suppress those thoughts. These repetitive behaviors are time consuming and cause impairment in daily functioning.
✔︎ Therapies used to treat OCD include Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Exposure and response prevention (ERP), and flooding.
✔︎ Pharmaceutical interventions for OCD include fluoxetine, fluvoxamine, paroxetine, and sertraline (SSRIs) and clomipramine (TCA). Other antipsychotic and antidepressant medications may also be used to manage extreme symptoms.
