A nurse is caring for a client who has post-traumatic stress disorder and is considering prolonged exposure therapy. The client asks, 'How does this therapy work?' Which of the following responses by the nurse accurately describes this type of therapy?

Correct Answer: B

Rationale: The correct answer is B) A therapist helps you safely and gradually face memories or situations related to your trauma that evoke fear. Prolonged exposure therapy is a type of cognitive-behavioral therapy commonly used to treat post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD). This therapy works by gradually exposing the individual to their traumatic memories or situations in a safe and controlled environment. By facing these experiences repeatedly over time, the individual can learn to process and reduce the fear associated with the trauma, ultimately leading to a decrease in PTSD symptoms. Option A is incorrect because it describes eye movement desensitization and reprocessing (EMDR) therapy, which involves focusing on eye movements while recalling traumatic experiences, but it does not involve exposure to the trauma itself. Option C describes talk therapy or psychotherapy focused on self-awareness and behavior change, which is not specific to the exposure-based approach of prolonged exposure therapy for PTSD. Option D describes cognitive therapy, which focuses on understanding and changing thought patterns and behaviors but does not involve exposure to traumatic memories as in prolonged exposure therapy. In an educational context, it is crucial for nurses to understand different types of therapy for mental health conditions like PTSD to provide accurate information to clients. Understanding the rationale behind each therapy helps nurses support clients in making informed decisions about their treatment options.

Correct Answer: B

Rationale: In this scenario, option B, "I plan to eliminate all fats from my diet to lose weight," indicates the need for further education. This statement reflects a common misconception that all fats are unhealthy, which is not true. Fats are essential for overall health and should be consumed in moderation. Option A demonstrates a good understanding of the importance of eating small, frequent meals to support weight restoration and overall health, making it a correct choice. Option C also shows a good understanding by recognizing the need to gradually increase caloric intake to achieve a healthy weight. Option D reflects a comprehensive understanding that a balanced diet with a variety of foods is crucial for improving overall health. In an educational context, it is important to emphasize to patients with anorexia nervosa that a balanced approach to nutrition is key. Educating them about the different food groups, portion sizes, and the importance of including healthy fats, proteins, and carbohydrates in their diet is essential. This will help them develop a healthier relationship with food and support their recovery journey.

Correct Answer: D

Rationale: The nurse would place a priority on monitoring and reinforcing suicide self-restraint because it relates directly and immediately to patient safety. Patient safety is always a priority concern. The nurse should monitor and reinforce all patient attempts to control anxiety, improve sleep patterns, and develop self-esteem, while giving priority attention to suicide self-restraint.

Correct Answer: C

Rationale: In this scenario, the correct first priority action for the nurse is option C: Ensure the patient's safety by removing potential means of self-harm. This is the most critical action because it directly addresses the immediate threat to the patient's life. By removing potential means of self-harm, such as sharp objects or medications, the nurse can prevent the patient from acting on the voices instructing self-harm. Option A is incorrect as asking about suicidal thoughts and plans should follow ensuring immediate safety. Option B is also incorrect as encouraging the patient to talk about delusions and hallucinations, while important for assessment and therapeutic communication, is not the most urgent action in this situation. Option D is not the first priority because administering antipsychotic medication may take time to be effective and does not directly address the immediate safety concern. In an educational context, it is crucial for nurses to prioritize actions based on the level of risk to the patient's safety. Immediate interventions to ensure patient safety, such as removing potential means of harm, take precedence over other assessments or treatments in situations where a patient expresses intent to harm themselves. This prioritization is essential in providing effective and timely care to patients with mental health conditions like schizophrenia.

Correct Answer: B

Rationale: In this scenario, the most appropriate intervention is option B) Teach the patient relaxation techniques to help manage anxiety. Generalized anxiety disorder is characterized by excessive and uncontrollable worry about various aspects of life. Teaching the patient relaxation techniques such as deep breathing, progressive muscle relaxation, or mindfulness can help them cope with their anxiety symptoms effectively. Option A) Encouraging the patient to confront their anxieties head-on may exacerbate their anxiety and lead to increased distress. Patients with generalized anxiety disorder often find it challenging to confront their worries directly without proper coping mechanisms in place. Option C) Reassuring the patient that their worries are unfounded and unimportant may invalidate their feelings and experiences, potentially worsening the therapeutic relationship and diminishing the patient's trust in the nurse. Option D) Encouraging the patient to avoid stressful situations whenever possible is not a recommended approach as it promotes avoidance behavior, which can further reinforce anxiety in the long term. It is essential to empower patients with coping strategies rather than avoidance tactics. Educationally, it is crucial for nurses to understand the evidence-based interventions for managing generalized anxiety disorder. By teaching relaxation techniques, nurses empower patients to take an active role in managing their symptoms and promote self-care practices that can enhance their overall well-being. This rationale highlights the importance of individualized, patient-centered care in addressing mental health challenges like generalized anxiety disorder.