A client is interested in trying non-pharmacological treatments for their somatic symptom illness. The nurse explains that one of these interventions involves using electronic devices to monitor and provide feedback on physiological functions like heart rate and muscle tension. What is this technique called?

Choice A rationale:

The client experiences altered voluntary motor functions. This choice is not accurate in describing illness anxiety disorder. Altered voluntary motor functions are more characteristic of conversion disorder, not illness anxiety disorder.

Choice B rationale:

The client has excessive or maladaptive responses to symptoms. This choice accurately describes illness anxiety disorder. Individuals with this disorder exhibit excessive worry and preoccupation with the possibility of having a serious illness, often responding to mild or non-specific symptoms with disproportionate anxiety and distress.

Choice C rationale:

The client is preoccupied with having a serious illness. This choice is correct in describing illness anxiety disorder. Preoccupation with having a serious illness, despite little or no medical evidence, is a hallmark of this disorder. This preoccupation can lead to significant distress and impairment in daily functioning.

Choice D rationale:

The client intentionally produces physical symptoms. This choice is not accurate for illness anxiety disorder. Intentional symptom production is more characteristic of factitious disorder, where individuals purposefully produce or feign symptoms for various reasons.

Choice E rationale:

The client's symptoms are not intentionally produced and cause distress. This choice accurately characterizes illness anxiety disorder. The symptoms experienced by individuals with this disorder are not intentionally produced but are associated with distress due to the individual's persistent fear and belief in having a serious illness.

Choice A rationale:

Discouraging the client from seeking professional help would be detrimental to their well-being. Somatic symptom illness often requires a multidisciplinary approach, involving both medical and psychological interventions. Encouraging professional help-seeking is essential for effective management.

Choice B rationale:

Promoting passive-aggressive behavior as a coping strategy is not appropriate. Passive-aggressive behavior can hinder effective communication and exacerbate the client's distress. Encouraging healthy coping mechanisms and addressing the underlying psychological factors is a more beneficial approach.

Choice C rationale:

Educating the client about the role of psychological factors is crucial because somatic symptom illness often has psychological components. Helping the client understand the mind-body connection can empower them to recognize how emotional stressors can manifest as physical symptoms. This knowledge can aid the client in managing their condition more effectively.

Choice D rationale:

Advising the client to continue avoiding physical activities is not recommended. Encouraging physical activity within the client's capabilities can have positive effects on their overall well-being. Avoidance of physical activities might lead to deconditioning and worsen the client's physical and emotional state.