How should a nurse respond to a client with obsessive-compulsive disorder who is anxious before a job interview?

The most appropriate response when interacting with a client experiencing anxiety, particularly one with obsessive-compulsive disorder (OCD), is to encourage them to articulate their feelings in the moment. By asking the client to "describe what you're feeling right now," the nurse creates an opportunity for the individual to express their emotions and thoughts, which can be therapeutic. This approach not only allows the nurse to gather valuable information about the client's current emotional state but also helps the client feel heard and validated.

Acknowledging and discussing their feelings can serve as a form of emotional support, enabling the client to process their anxiety more effectively. For someone with OCD, whose thoughts and behaviors may be particularly distressing, verbalizing their feelings can help to diffuse anxiety and provide insight into their coping mechanisms. This interactive dialogue is integral to building a trusting nurse-client relationship and assists in developing coping strategies tailored to the client's experiences.

In contrast, the other responses may not provide the support or validation needed at that moment. Suggesting the need to overcome anxiety or indicating that their actions reflect a desire to avoid the interview can come across as dismissive or judgmental. Proposing a job change may divert focus from addressing the anxiety about the immediate challenge and can add further stress. Therefore, inviting the