ATI Mental Health Proctored Exam Related

Review ATI Mental Health Proctored Exam related questions and content

A nurse is providing teaching to a client who has obsessive-compulsive disorder and engages in excessive handwashing. Which of the following instructions should the nurse include?

  • A. Encourage the client to stop washing hands
  • B. Allow additional time for rituals
  • C. Limit ritual behaviors immediately
  • D. Ignore the compulsions
Correct Answer: B

Rationale: The correct answer is B: Allow additional time for rituals. This is because abruptly stopping the handwashing rituals can lead to increased anxiety and distress for the client. Allowing additional time for rituals can help the client feel more in control and gradually work towards reducing the behavior. Encouraging the client to stop washing hands (A) abruptly can be counterproductive. Limiting ritual behaviors immediately (C) can also increase anxiety. Ignoring the compulsions (D) may worsen the condition.