A 22-year-old man who is diagnosed with obsessive-compulsive disorder (OCD) that includes a compulsion to check all faucets to make sure they do not drip is hospitalized when he is no longer able to function at home or work due to his behavior. In the psychiatric unit, his actions consume a major part of his waking hours, and often he misses meals and other scheduled activities. Identify the intervention by the nurse that is most likely to precipitate a panic attack in this client.
A)Asking the client about his repressed feelings after he completes his ritual
B)Requiring the client to participate in scheduled meal times even if his rituals are not complete
C)Pointing out to the client that his actions are meaningless
D)Using thought stopping and aversion therapy to block the ritualistic actions

Question

Quizplus · Accepted Answer

Requiring the client to participate in scheduled meal times even if his rituals are not complete is likely to precipitate a panic attack as it goes directly against his compulsive behavior and may cause significant anxiety and distress for him. It is important for the nurse to work with the client to gradually reduce the intensity and frequency of his compulsive behavior, but this should be done in a collaborative and supportive manner, rather than through abruptly stopping the behaviors or criticizing their meaninglessness.

A 22-Year-Old Man Who Is Diagnosed with Obsessive-Compulsive Disorder (OCD)