A psychiatric-mental health nurse is working with a client diagnosed with obsessive-compulsive disorder (OCD). The client engages in an intense handwashing ritual, usually once an hour. Which intervention would be most appropriate for the nurse to include in a teaching plan for this client?

Question

Quizplus · Accepted Answer

For the client with cleaning or handwashing compulsions, attention to skin condition is necessary. Encourage the individual to use tepid water when washing and hand cream after washing. Remove harsh, abrasive soaps and replace them with moisturizing soaps. A strong antibacterial soap would be harsh. Attempt to decrease the frequency of washing by agreeing on a time schedule and time-limited washing. Setting up a schedule to wash hands every 20 minutes would increase the frequency of the activity.

A Psychiatric-Mental Health Nurse Is Working with a Client Diagnosed