A nurse is caring for a client who has obsessive-compulsive disorder (OCD). Which of the following actions by the client should the nurse interpret as a compulsive behavior?

The correct answer is B because handwashing rituals are a common compulsive behavior in individuals with OCD. These rituals are performed in an attempt to reduce anxiety or prevent harm related to obsessive thoughts. Continual thoughts about death (A) may be distressing but not necessarily a compulsive behavior. Fears of contamination (C) are common in OCD, but expressing these fears alone does not indicate a compulsive behavior. Excessive dependency on others (D) may be a sign of another mental health issue, such as dependent personality disorder, but not specific to OCD compulsions.