Mental Health HESI Related

Review Mental Health HESI related questions and content

A client who has agoraphobia (a fear of crowds) is starting desensitization therapy with the therapist, and the nurse is reinforcing the process. Which intervention has the highest priority for this client's plan of care?

  • A. Encourage the substitution of positive thoughts for negative ones.
  • B. Establish trust by providing a calm, safe environment.
  • C. Gradually expose the client to larger crowds.
  • D. Encourage deep breathing when anxiety escalates in a crowd.
Correct Answer: B

Rationale: Establishing trust by providing a calm and safe environment is crucial for the success of desensitization therapy in clients with agoraphobia. This approach helps the client feel safe and secure, allowing them to gradually confront their fear of crowds. Encouraging positive thoughts (choice A) is beneficial but not as immediately critical as creating a safe space. Progressively exposing the client to larger crowds (choice C) should occur after trust is established and in a controlled manner. Encouraging deep breathing (choice D) is helpful, but creating a safe environment takes precedence to build a foundation for successful desensitization.