Free PN NCLEX Practice Questions Practice Question

An adult is admitted to the psychiatric unit with a severe phobia. She develops severe anxiety when she crosses any type of bridge. She can no longer go to work or go shopping at the mall. The day after admission, she develops a panic attack and refuses to go to occupational therapy because she has to cross a bridge-like structure to go from one area of the hospital to another. How should the nurse respond to this situation?

Correct Answer: C

Rationale: Accompanying the client to occupational therapy via a different route (Option C) respects her current emotional state while still encouraging participation in therapy. This approach minimizes anxiety and fosters a sense of safety, which is crucial for effective treatment.

Option A, while supportive, may inadvertently reinforce avoidance behaviors by providing a crutch rather than addressing the underlying phobia. Option B, excusing her from therapy, could hinder her progress and reinforce avoidance. Option D, suggesting she confront her fears immediately, may increase anxiety and lead to feelings of helplessness, which is counterproductive in managing phobias.

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