A client diagnosed with a conversion disorder has a nursing diagnosis of disturbed sensory perception related to anxiety as evidenced by paralysis. Which short-term outcome would be appropriate for this client?
The client will demonstrate recovery of lost function by discharge.
The client will use one effective coping mechanism to decrease anxiety by day 3.
The client will express feelings of fear about paralysis by day 1.
The client will acknowledge underlying anxiety by day 4.
The Correct Answer is D
Conversion disorder involves unconscious expression of psychological conflict through physical symptoms. Acknowledging anxiety is a critical therapeutic milestone, indicating insight and readiness for recovery. Short-term goals should focus on emotional awareness and coping.
Rationale for correct answer
4. Recognition of underlying anxiety by day 4 reflects progress in insight and emotional processing, which is essential for symptom resolution.
Rationale for incorrect answers
1. Recovery of function may occur, but it is not a short-term goal. Emotional insight precedes physical improvement.
2. Coping mechanisms are important, but using one by day 3 is premature without acknowledging the psychological origin.
3. Fear expression is valid, but it does not address the core issue of unconscious anxiety driving the symptoms.
Take Home Points
- Emotional insight is key to managing conversion disorder.
- Short-term goals should focus on psychological awareness, not physical recovery.
- Functional symptoms resolve as emotional conflicts are addressed.
- Therapy should prioritize helping clients connect emotions to physical symptoms.
Nursing Test Bank
Naxlex Comprehensive Predictor Exams
Related Questions
Correct Answer is D
Explanation
Somatization disorderinvolves multiple physical complaints that lack a clear medical cause and are linked to psychological distress, coping deficits, and functional impairment. Assessment focuses on understanding the patient’s emotional state, coping mechanisms, and impact on daily life. While safety is always a priority, violence riskis not typically associated with somatization unless comorbid conditions exist.
Rationale for correct answers
4.Potential for violence is not a core concern in somatization disorder unless there are comorbid psychiatricconditions; it is least relevantin standard assessment.
Rationale for incorrect answers
1.Understanding coping mechanisms is essential to identify maladaptive strategiesand guide therapeutic interventions.
2.Diagnostic workups help rule out organic causes, supporting accurate diagnosis and avoiding unnecessary medical procedures.
3.Limitations in daily living reflect the functional impactof symptoms and guide care planning and outcome evaluation.
Take Home Points
- Violence risk is not a primary concern in somatization disorder unless other psychiatric risks are present.
- Assessment should focus on coping, functional limitations, and diagnostic clarity.
- Understanding the psychological basis of symptoms is essential for effective care.
- Functional impairment guides nursing interventions and outcome planning.
Correct Answer is D
Explanation
Somatization disorderreflects the conversion of emotional distress into physical symptoms, often without conscious awareness. Therapeutic interventions aim to build insight, emotional awareness, and self-monitoring. Journaling is a cognitive-behavioral tool that helps clients identify patterns between stress and physical complaints, promoting emotional regulation and reducing symptom intensity.
Rationale for correct answers
4.Journaling supports self-awarenessand helps the client recognize the connectionbetween anxiety and physical symptoms, indicating therapeutic progress.
Rationale for incorrect answers
1.Rating anxiety is useful but does not reflect insightinto how it affects physical symptoms.
2.Requesting family involvement may reflect externalization, not internal understanding of symptom triggers.
3.Interest in assertiveness training is positive but does not directly demonstrate link recognitionbetween anxiety and somatic symptoms.
Take Home Points
- Journaling fosters insight into emotional triggers and physical symptom patterns.
- Recognition of mind-body connections is a key therapeutic goal in somatization disorder.
- Self-monitoring tools enhance emotional regulation and reduce symptom preoccupation.
- External solutions are helpful but must be paired with internal awareness for lasting change.
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