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. Conversion disorder involves the presence of neurological symptoms that are inconsistent with known neurological or medical conditions. These symptoms often manifest as sensory or motor deficits, such as blindness, paralysis, or seizures, without a clear organic basis. The symptoms are not intentionally produced and are not explained by another medical or psychiatric condition.
A. Hypochondriasis, now known as illness anxiety disorder, involves excessive worry or preoccupation with having a serious illness despite medical reassurance and lack of significant physical symptoms. It does not typically involve sensory or neurological symptoms such as blindness.
C. Malingering involves the intentional production or exaggeration of symptoms for secondary gain, such as financial compensation, avoiding military duty, or obtaining drugs. In malingering, there is typically a clear external incentive for the behavior, which is not evident in the soldier's case.
D. Somatization disorder (now termed somatic symptom disorder) involves multiple and recurrent physical symptoms that are distressing and lead to excessive thoughts, feelings, and behaviors related to these symptoms. It does not typically present with sudden onset of sensory deficits like blindness.
Correct Answer is D
Explanation
D. When someone assumes the sick role, society typically grants them permission to prioritize their health and well-being. This often includes being excused from work, school, or other responsibilities to focus on recovery. Rest is an important aspect of recuperation during illness.
A. When someone assumes the sick role, their engagement in social responsibilities typically decreases or is temporarily suspended. This is because the focus shifts towards managing the illness, seeking treatment, and recovering. Social interactions may be reduced due to physical limitations or the need to avoid spreading illness to others.
B. Denial of illness is not characteristic of assuming the sick role. Assuming the sick role involves acknowledging and recognizing the presence of illness, which prompts seeking medical attention and adopting behaviors conducive to recovery.
C. On the contrary, assuming the sick role often involves a change in duties and responsibilities. The individual may need to delegate tasks or take a break from their usual obligations to focus on recuperation and treatment.
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