Student Name Capella University NURS-FPX4015 Pathophysiology, Pharmacology, and Physical Assessment: A Holistic Approach to Patient-Centered Care Prof. Name Date Concept Map: The 3Ps and Mental Health Management Obsessive-Compulsive Disorder (OCD) is a psychiatric diagnosis that consists of persistent intrusive thoughts (obsessions) and repetitive behaviors or mental rituals (compulsions) conducted for the purpose of alleviating anxiety. OCD typically presents in adolescence, with rates ranging from 1–3% in youth (Brock et al., 2024). In the case of Wesley Blanco: a 13-year-old non-binary Filipino, white adolescent, symptoms comprised extreme amounts of guilt, repetitive praying, and ritualistic behavior such as chewing food a certain number of times. The compulsions increased during stressful situations, interfering with Wesley’s performance at school and his social life. Wesley was diagnosed with OCD, started on fluoxetine, and returned for follow-up at which time there was substantial improvement in mood, sleep, and anxiety. Case Study Wesley Blanco, a 13-year-old non-binary Filipino and White youth, experienced intense guilt, anxiety, and compulsive behaviors. Previously, Wesley’s mother noticed some variation over time, as her child cried frequently, would apologize excessively, and engaged in compulsive praying. Wesley experienced obsessions, or intrusive thoughts about minor past events, prior to larger tasks, including breaking a mug. Wesley described compulsive rituals, like chewing food a specific way (specifically 15 times) or rehearsing certain phrases in order to ward off perceived harm via repetition of chanting-like phrases. Most symptoms presented or worsened when stressed, and studies show exacerbation of symptoms occurs with schoolwork. There was no known psychiatric history as of the assessment date, though Wesley’s father has Tourette’s syndrome, indicating a possible genetic component. Wesley’s physical health was stable, and they denied any history of suicidal ideation. A clinical assessment confirmed OCD diagnosis, a neuropsychiatric disorder characterized by obsessive thoughts and compulsive behaviors focused on the event that elicited the obsessive thoughts above. Treatment included a combination of fluoxetine and a selective serotonin reuptake inhibitor (SSRI) (Sohel et al., 2024). After one month, Wesley showed reduced obsessive thoughts, improved mood, and better school performance. Ongoing therapy and medication monitoring were advised, emphasizing inclusive communication and culturally sensitive family involvement to support recovery. Mental Health Diagnosis Concept Map Pathophysiology Wesley Blanco’s obsessive-compulsive disorder (OCD) happens because of an imbalance in brain chemicals, especially serotonin, which affects how the brain manages thoughts and habits. Certain brain areas, like the frontal lobe and basal ganglia, overreact and create repetitive worries and behaviors. Genetics also increase the risk of developing OCD (Majdari et al., 2021). Pharmacology Wesley Blanco is being treated for OCD with fluoxetine, a medication that helps balance serotonin levels in the brain. This reduces unwanted thoughts and repetitive behaviors, improving mood and focus. The doctor started with a low dose to avoid side effects and will adjust it slowly. Wesley is also continuing therapy for best results. Evidence shows fluoxetine is safe and effective for treating OCD in children and adolescents (Sobel et al., 2024). Physical Assessment (Signs and Symptoms) Wesley Blanco, a 13-year-old non-binary adolescent, showed signs of anxiety such as restlessness, trouble focusing, and ritualistic behaviors like checking food exactly 15 times and repetitive praying or chanting. They often appeared tense and fearful, with difficulty relaxing and sleeping. Stress made these symptoms worse. Evidence shows that repetitive rituals and excessive worry are common physical and behavioral signs of obsessive-compulsive disorder in adolescents (Cui et al., 2023). Nursing Diagnosis Nursing diagnosis for Wesley Blanco includes Anxiety related to intrusive thoughts and repetitive behaviors. Wesley may show distress when unable to perform rituals, leading to increased anxiety and sleep disturbances. Ineffective coping is also present due to reliance on compulsions to reduce anxiety. Nurses play a crucial role in identifying OCD by observing behavioral patterns, such as repetitive rituals, excessive checking, or anxiety-driven actions (Brock et al., 2024). Mental Health Diagnosis Wesley Blanco, a 13-year-old non-binary Filipino-White adolescent, experiences Obsessive-Compulsive Disorder (OCD), which involves unwanted thoughts (obsessions) and repetitive behaviors (compulsions) that interfere with daily life. Symptoms may include excessive checking, handwashing, or mental rituals. OCD can impact school, social interactions, and family routines. Early diagnosis and treatment improve outcomes. Research shows that evidence-based therapies reduce OCD symptoms significantly in children and adolescents (Yan et al., 2022). Risk Factors Wesley Blanco’s OCD risk factors include a family history of Tourette’s syndrome, which is linked to OCD, and high stress from school. Their mixed cultural background may add pressure due to bicultural identity and modern beliefs about mental health. Personality traits like guilt and perfectionism also make people more likely to develop obsessive and compulsive behaviors (Cui et al., 2023). Diagnostic Procedures No lab tests were needed for Wesley Blanco’s diagnosis because OCD is identified through careful observation and discussion rather than medical testing. The provider used a clinical interview and the Children’s Yale-Brown Obsessive Compulsive Scale (CY-BOCS) to measure the severity of Wesley’s symptoms and track progress. Evidence shows that the CY-BOCS is a reliable tool for assessing OCD symptoms in children and adolescents (Yan et al., 2022). Complications If Wesley’s OCD is not treated properly, they may face problems like severe anxiety, trouble focusing at school, poor sleep, and withdrawal from friends and activities. The constant rituals and guilt could also affect their confidence and daily routines. Over time, untreated OCD can lead to depression or other mental health issues. Research shows that early treatment with SSRIs can greatly reduce OCD symptoms in adolescents (Sobel et al., 2024). Nursing Interventions Nursing interventions for Wesley Blanco’s OCD focus on reducing anxiety, managing compulsions, and supporting daily functioning. Nurses can help by teaching coping strategies like deep breathing and mindfulness, encouraging structured routines, and gradually exposing Wesley to feared situations in a safe way. Supportive communication and positive reinforcement help build confidence. Collaboration with family and mental health professionals ensures consistent care. Evidence shows that nurses help in monitoring medication side effects, adherence, and response to SSRIs like fluoxetine (Sobel et al., 2024). Conclusion Wesley Blanco’s case illustrates how OCD can affect the quality of life and functioning