A nurse works with a client diagnosed with posttraumatic stress disorder (PTSD) who has frequent flashbacks and persistent symptoms of arousal. Which intervention should be included in the plan of care?

Choice A reason: Educating the client that physical symptoms such as hyperarousal, insomnia, and somatic complaints are linked to psychological trauma helps normalize their experience and fosters insight. This is a therapeutic and evidence-based approach. Choice B reason: Supporting emotional numbing is countertherapeutic. While it may be a coping mechanism, it prevents emotional processing and healing. The goal is to help clients feel and manage emotions safely. Choice C reason: Intentionally triggering flashbacks is unethical and harmful. Exposure therapy must be carefully structured and only used under controlled conditions with informed consent and clinical supervision. Choice D reason: Encouraging repression of traumatic feelings can worsen PTSD symptoms. Repression prevents emotional processing and may lead to increased distress or somatic symptoms.