Author Question: When a client with obsessive-compulsive disorder (OCD) has developed self-harming thoughts and ... (Read 127 times)

cherise1989 · **on:** Jul 19, 2018

When a client with obsessive-compulsive disorder (OCD) has developed self-harming thoughts and actions, the emergency department nurse should expect to administer which medication to assist with the client's anxiety/panic?

A) Benzodiazepines such as lorazepam
B) Antipsychotics such as lithium carbonate
C) Analgesics such as morphine sulfate
D) Tricyclic antidepressants such as amoxapine

Question 2

When utilizing cognitive restructuring for a client with obsessive-compulsive disorder (OCD), the nurse teaches the client to monitor automatic thoughts and recognize the connection between thoughts, emotional response, and behavior.

The goal would be for the client to:

A) Decrease their compulsive actions by 50.
B) Analyze their thoughts as incongruent with reality.
C) Improve their sleeping patterns.
D) Build time in their daily schedule to perform the compulsion without interruption.

phuda · **Reply #1 on:** Jul 19, 2018

Answer to Question 1

Ans: A
Although only individuals with severely debilitating symptoms or self-harming thoughts and actions are hospitalized, clients may experience intense anxiety symptoms to the point of panic. In such an emergency, benzodiazepines and other anxiolytics can be used.

Answer to Question 2

Ans: B
With cognitive restructuring, the client is taught to monitor automatic thoughts and then to recognize the connection between the thoughts, emotional response, and behaviors. The distorted thoughts are examined and tested by for-or-against evidence presented by the therapist, which helps the individual to realistically assess the likelihood that the feared event will happen if the compulsive behavior is not performed. The person begins to analyze his or her thoughts as incongruent with reality. For example, even if the alarm clock is not checked 30 times before going to bed, it will still go off in the morning, and the person will not be disciplined for tardiness at work. Maybe it needs to be checked only once or twice. There is no research to support that the actions will decrease 50. Relaxation techniques assist with improving sleep pattern.