Before eating a meal, a client with obsessive-compulsive disorder must wash her hands for 14 minutes, comb her hair for 114 stro
kes, and switch the light off and on 44 times. What is the most important treatment goal for this client? A) Allow ample time for completion of all rituals before each meal.
B) Gradually decrease the amount of time spent performing rituals.
C) Increase the client's acceptance of the need for medication to control rituals.
D) Omit one ritualistic behavior every 4 days until all rituals are eliminated.
The answer is B. Gradually decrease the amount of time spent for performing rituals
Explanation:
Obsessive Compulsive Disorder (OCD) is a mental illness that comprises of excessive thoughts or obsessions and repetitive behaviors or compulsions which happens when the person is under distress. The client washing her hands, combing her hair and switching the light on and off repetitively is main symptom of obsessive compulsive disorder. The most important treatment goal for the client then is to help her gradually decrease the amount of time she spends performing the rituals (washing hands, combing hair and switching the light on and off) so she can get to eat her meal on time.
