A client continually reports physical symptoms in the absence of objective clinical findings. The nurse should suspect which of the following disorders?
Dysthymia
Body dysmorphic disorder
Somatoform disorder
Major depressive disorder
The Correct Answer is C
C Somatoform disorders are characterized by physical symptoms that suggest a medical condition but cannot be fully explained by a general medical condition, another mental disorder, or substance use. Individuals with somatoform disorders often experience distress or impairment due to these symptoms despite medical reassurance that no physical cause can be found.
A. Dysthymia is a type of persistent depressive disorder characterized by a depressed mood that lasts for at least two years. It typically involves emotional and behavioral symptoms rather than physical symptoms without clinical findings.
B. Body dysmorphic disorder involves a preoccupation with perceived defects or flaws in physical appearance that are not observable or appear slight to others. While it involves body image concerns, it does not manifest as physical symptoms in the absence of objective findings.
D. Major depressive disorder primarily involves mood disturbances such as sadness, loss of interest or pleasure, and changes in appetite or sleep. While physical symptoms like fatigue and changes in weight can occur, they are not typically reported persistently without objective clinical findings as seen in somatoform disorders.
Nursing Test Bank
Naxlex Comprehensive Predictor Exams
Related Questions
Correct Answer is B
Explanation
B. This is the most appropriate initial action. One-to-one observation ensures constant monitoring of the client's safety and prevents further harm, such as another suicide attempt or self-harm. Given the client's history of depression and recent suicide attempt, ensuring their safety is paramount.
A. This option is not the first priority because while addressing anorexia nervosa is important, safety concerns related to the suicide attempt and potential substance abuse take precedence. Making a weight gain contract requires the client's cooperation and readiness, which may not be feasible immediately upon admission.
C. While assessing the severity of depression is crucial, it is secondary to ensuring immediate safety in this context. The client's safety must be established first through continuous observation and intervention.
D. While important to understand the substances involved in the suicide attempt, this action is secondary to ensuring ongoing safety through direct observation. Toxicology results can guide subsequent treatment decisions but are not as urgent as immediate safety measures.
Correct Answer is B
Explanation
B. This is the correct priority action. Serotonin syndrome can be life-threatening if not promptly recognized and treated. The physician needs to be notified immediately so that appropriate actions can be taken to manage the client's symptoms and potentially adjust the medication regimen.
A. Aspirin is not appropriate for treating serotonin syndrome. Monitoring the client's symptoms is important, but this action does not address the potential seriousness of the symptoms described.
C. Delaying notification could lead to worsening of symptoms and potential complications. Given the potential seriousness of serotonin syndrome, waiting until it's convenient is not appropriate.
D. While headache, palpitations, and stiffness could potentially be side effects of antidepressant medication, the combination of these symptoms raises concern for serotonin syndrome, which requires immediate medical attention rather than reassurance alone.
Whether you are a student looking to ace your exams or a practicing nurse seeking to enhance your expertise , our nursing education contents will empower you with the confidence and competence to make a difference in the lives of patients and become a respected leader in the healthcare field.
Visit Naxlex, invest in your future and unlock endless possibilities with our unparalleled nursing education contents today
Report Wrong Answer on the Current Question
Do you disagree with the answer? If yes, what is your expected answer? Explain.
Kindly be descriptive with the issue you are facing.
