ATI Mental Health Practice A Related

Review ATI Mental Health Practice A related questions and content

A patient with agoraphobia is unable to leave home. Which intervention should the nurse prioritize?

  • A. Teach the patient relaxation techniques.
  • B. Gradual exposure to feared situations.
  • C. Encourage the patient to attend social gatherings.
  • D. Provide education about the disorder.
Correct Answer: B

Rationale: For a patient with agoraphobia, the priority intervention should be gradual exposure to feared situations. This approach helps the patient confront and gradually overcome their fear of leaving home, a common challenge in agoraphobia. By exposing the patient to feared situations in a step-by-step manner, they can learn to manage their anxiety and increase their confidence in leaving home. Teaching relaxation techniques (Choice A) can be beneficial but may not address the core issue of avoidance behavior. Encouraging the patient to attend social gatherings (Choice C) can be overwhelming and counterproductive at the initial stage of treatment. Providing education about the disorder (Choice D) is important but should come after addressing the immediate need for exposure therapy.