A client with a somatic symptom illness states, "I always feel weak and fatigued, no matter what I do. I can't even walk properly." Which nursing intervention is appropriate for this client?
Encouraging the client to ignore their physical symptoms.
Explaining that the symptoms are purely psychological.
Assisting the client to express their emotions and thoughts.
Providing excessive attention and sympathy to the client.
The Correct Answer is C
Choice A rationale:
Encouraging the client to ignore their physical symptoms would not be an appropriate intervention. Somatic symptom illness involves genuine distress and discomfort, and disregarding the symptoms might lead to increased frustration and anxiety.
Choice B rationale:
Explaining that the symptoms are purely psychological oversimplifies the situation. While psychological factors do play a role in somatic symptom illness, the symptoms are not purely imaginary. Validating the client's experiences while addressing underlying emotional factors is a more comprehensive approach.
Choice C rationale:
Assisting the client to express their emotions and thoughts is a suitable intervention. Somatic symptom illness often arises from unaddressed emotional distress. By encouraging the client to discuss their feelings, the nurse provides a safe space for emotional expression and can help identify contributing factors.
Choice D rationale:
Providing excessive attention and sympathy to the client might inadvertently reinforce their focus on physical symptoms rather than addressing the underlying emotional issues. This approach could potentially contribute to the maintenance of somatic symptom illness.
Nursing Test Bank
Naxlex Comprehensive Predictor Exams
Related Questions
Correct Answer is C
Explanation
Choice A rationale:
"Conversion disorder.". Choice A is not the correct answer. Conversion disorder involves the development of physical symptoms, such as motor or sensory deficits, that suggest a neurological or medical condition but are actually caused by psychological factors. It does not involve intentional production or falsification of symptoms for attention.
Choice B rationale:
"Illness anxiety disorder.". Choice B is not the correct answer. Illness anxiety disorder is characterized by excessive worry and fear of having a serious illness, even in the absence of medical evidence. It does not involve intentional fabrication of symptoms for attention.
Choice C rationale:
"Factitious disorder.". Choice C is the correct answer. Factitious disorder is characterized by intentionally producing or falsifying physical or psychological symptoms to assume the role of a sick person. The primary motivation is to receive attention, care, and sympathy from medical professionals or others. This behavior is driven by psychological factors rather than genuine medical need.
Choice D rationale:
"Somatic symptom disorder.". Choice D is not the correct answer. Somatic symptom disorder involves experiencing distressing physical symptoms that interfere with daily life. While the symptoms are real and genuinely felt, the central issue in somatic symptom disorder is the excessive response to these symptoms and the preoccupation with health concerns. It is not primarily about intentionally falsifying symptoms for attention.
Correct Answer is ["A","D"]
Explanation
Choice A rationale:
Problem-solving is an effective coping strategy for individuals with somatic symptom illness. Encouraging the client to identify and address the underlying issues contributing to their symptoms helps them gain a sense of control and reduces distress. By analyzing problems and generating possible solutions, the client can develop healthier ways to manage their symptoms.
Choice B rationale:
Denial of emotions is not a recommended coping strategy for somatic symptom illness. Denying emotions can lead to avoidance of underlying issues and exacerbate psychological distress. Encouraging clients to acknowledge and express their emotions is more beneficial for their overall well-being.
Choice C rationale:
Escaping from unpleasant situations is not a healthy coping strategy for somatic symptom illness. Avoidance of situations can reinforce avoidance behaviors and hinder the client's progress. It's important to promote facing challenges and developing adaptive coping mechanisms.
Choice D rationale:
Seeking social support is a valuable coping strategy for individuals with somatic symptom illness. Connecting with others and receiving empathy and understanding can help alleviate feelings of isolation and provide the client with a support system. Social support encourages positive emotional expression and sharing of experiences.
Choice E rationale:
Repressing emotions is not a recommended coping strategy for somatic symptom illness. Repression can lead to increased stress and potentially worsen physical symptoms. Encouraging emotional awareness and expression is more beneficial for the client's psychological well-being.
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