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 C
Explanation
C This is a common and potentially life-threatening complication in individuals with anorexia nervosa who are undergoing treatment. It can lead to cardiac arrhythmias.
A. Anorexia nervosa can lead to electrolyte imbalances, including hyponatremia (low serum sodium level), due to inadequate intake of sodium and fluid restriction. Antidepressants, particularly selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors (SSRIs), can also contribute to hyponatremia by causing the syndrome of inappropriate antidiuretic hormone secretion (SIADH), which leads to water retention and dilutional hyponatremia. However, it is not as life-threatening as hypokalemia.
B. Anorexia nervosa can lead to electrolyte imbalances, including hyponatremia (low serum sodium level), due to inadequate intake of sodium and fluid restriction. However, it is not as life-threatening as hypokalemia.
D. Anorexia nervosa typically does not lead to hyperkalemia (high serum potassium level), as potassium is usually lost through purging behaviors or inadequate intake. Antidepressants also do not commonly cause hyperkalemia as a side effect.
Correct Answer is D
Explanation
D. Dissociative disorders, particularly post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) and acute stress disorder, can involve the reliving of traumatic events through flashbacks, nightmares, or intrusive memories.
Hospitalization may be required if the client experiences severe distress, is at risk of self-harm or harm to others during flashbacks.
A. Dissociative amnesia is characterized by significant memory loss that cannot be explained by ordinary forgetfulness. If a client experiences sudden travel and cannot remember how they arrived at a distant location, it could indicate dissociative amnesia. Hospitalization is not absolutely necessary.
B Dissociative disorders are primarily treated with psychotherapy rather than medication adjustments. However, if medication adjustments are necessary for co-occurring conditions or to manage symptoms like anxiety or depression, hospitalization is not necessary.
C. Monitoring of identities is typically done on an outpatient basis, unless there are additional complications or risks identified by a healthcare professional.
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.