OCD isn’t just about being neat — it’s about intrusive thoughts (obsessions) and repetitive behaviors (compulsions) that feel impossible to ignore. As a psychiatric NP, you need to quickly identify patterns like contamination fears, symmetry obsessions, or harm-related thoughts, paired with rituals like checking, cleaning, or mental repetition. This cheat sheet lays out DSM-5 criteria, red flags, Y-BOCS screening guidance, and how to distinguish OCD from generalized anxiety or psychotic disorders.
Treatment-wise, high-dose SSRIs (like fluoxetine, fluvoxamine, sertraline) and CBT with Exposure and Response Prevention (ERP) are frontline. It also notes when to consider clomipramine or antipsychotic augmentation for resistant cases. OCD can be isolating and time-consuming, but with the right approach, patients can regain control. This guide helps you spot it fast, treat it right, and support recovery without delay.