A nurse is caring for a client who has obsessive-compulsive disorder. Which of the following comorbidities should the nurse anticipate when reviewing the client's medical record?
Explanation & Rationale
A. Delusional disorder: Delusional disorder is characterized by the presence of false beliefs that are not consistent with reality. While some individuals with obsessive-compulsive disorder (OCD) may experience distorted thoughts, delusional disorder is not a common comorbidity associated with OCD. B. Post-traumatic stress disorder: PTSD is a recognized comorbidity with OCD. Individuals with OCD may develop PTSD due to traumatic experiences that trigger their obsessions or compulsions, or they may have had traumatic events in their history that contribute to the development of both conditions. C. Anorexia nervosa: While eating disorders can coexist with various mental health conditions, anorexia nervosa is not specifically linked as a common comorbidity with OCD. The relationship between OCD and eating disorders is complex, but anorexia nervosa is not a primary comorbid condition typically associated with OCD. D. Agoraphobia: Although agoraphobia can occur alongside OCD, it is not as strongly correlated as PTSD. Agoraphobia involves the fear of being in situations where escape might be difficult or help unavailable, while OCD primarily involves intrusive thoughts and compulsive behaviors. Although both conditions can coexist, PTSD is more commonly recognized as a comorbidity.