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.

Answer and Explanation

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.

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Correct Answer is C

Explanation

Choice A rationale:

Psychodynamic therapy - Psychodynamic therapy focuses on exploring unconscious conflicts and childhood experiences to understand and address current psychological issues. While it can be beneficial for various mental health concerns, it may not be the primary approach for challenging and changing negative thoughts and beliefs that contribute to somatic symptom illnesses.

Choice B rationale:

Family therapy - Family therapy involves addressing family dynamics and interactions to improve overall family functioning. While family support is important, family therapy might not be the primary approach to directly address the negative thoughts and beliefs contributing to somatic symptoms.

Choice C rationale:

Cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT) - This is the correct answer. CBT is well-known for its effectiveness in treating somatic symptom illnesses. It targets negative thought patterns and beliefs that contribute to physical symptoms. By challenging these thoughts and promoting healthier beliefs, clients can experience a reduction in somatic symptoms and improved overall functioning.

Choice D rationale:

Interpersonal therapy - Interpersonal therapy focuses on improving interpersonal relationships and communication. While these skills are valuable, this type of therapy might not be the primary choice for directly addressing the cognitive aspect of somatic symptom illnesses.

Disorder	Definition	Symptoms	Causes	Treatment
Somatic symptom disorder	A condition in which a person has physical symptoms that cause significant distress or impairment, but are not fully explained by a medical condition.	Pain, fatigue, weakness, shortness of breath, etc. The person may also have excessive worry, anxiety, or depression about the symptoms.	The exact cause is unknown, but it may be related to genetic, biological, psychological, and social factors. Stress and trauma may trigger or worsen the symptoms.	Psychotherapy, medication, and self-care strategies to cope with the symptoms and reduce stress.
Factitious disorder	A condition in which a person deliberately produces, feigns, or exaggerates symptoms of an illness or injury, without a clear motive or benefit.	The person may have various symptoms that mimic a medical condition, such as fever, bleeding, seizures, etc. The person may also tamper with tests, injure themselves, or take substances to induce symptoms.	The exact cause is unknown, but it may be related to psychological factors such as low self-esteem, childhood abuse or neglect, personality disorders, or emotional trauma. The person may seek attention, care, or sympathy from others.	Psychotherapy, medication, and family or group therapy to address the underlying issues and improve self-esteem and coping skills.
Conversion disorder	A condition in which a person has neurological symptoms that are not explained by a neurological disease or another medical condition.	The person may have weakness, paralysis, tremors, seizures, numbness, vision or hearing problems, speech difficulties, etc. The symptoms may vary in severity and duration.	The exact cause is unknown, but it may be related to how the brain functions rather than its structure. The condition may be triggered by a neurological disorder or by stress or psychological trauma.	Psychotherapy, medication, physical therapy, and hypnosis to relieve the symptoms and manage the stress or trauma.
Illness anxiety disorder	A condition in which a person has excessive fear or worry that they have or will develop a serious illness, despite having few or no symptoms.	The person may have mild or normal body sensations that they interpret as signs of a serious disease. The person may also seek frequent medical reassurance or avoid medical care for fear of being diagnosed. The person may also search the internet for information about diseases or symptoms.	The exact cause is unknown, but it may be related to genetic, biological, psychological, and environmental factors. Anxiety disorders, depression, childhood illness or abuse, or stressful life events may increase the risk.	Psychotherapy, medication, and self-help strategies to challenge the negative thoughts and reduce anxiety.

A. Complete elimination of all physical symptoms. B. Reduction in the frequency and intensity of physical symptoms. C. Improvement in mood and self-esteem. D. Ability to manage stress and cope with symptoms effectively. E. Developing a dislike for medical appointments.

Correct Answer is ["B","C","D"]

Explanation

Choice A rationale:

Complete elimination of all physical symptoms - This choice might not be a realistic and achievable goal for clients with somatic symptom illnesses. These conditions often involve complex factors and underlying psychological issues that might not allow for the complete elimination of physical symptoms. Furthermore, the mind-body connection in these cases can make it challenging to solely focus on the physical aspect.

Choice B rationale:

Reduction in the frequency and intensity of physical symptoms - This is a realistic and measurable goal for clients with somatic symptom illnesses. Many of these illnesses involve somatization, where emotional distress is manifested as physical symptoms. By working towards reducing the frequency and intensity of these symptoms, clients can experience improved quality of life and functioning.

Choice C rationale:

Improvement in mood and self-esteem - This is a valid goal for clients with somatic symptom illnesses. These conditions often coexist with mood disorders and low self-esteem. Addressing these psychological aspects can lead to better overall well-being and a reduction in the somatic symptoms. Additionally, improved mood and self-esteem can contribute to a client's ability to cope effectively with their symptoms.

Choice D rationale:

Ability to manage stress and cope with symptoms effectively - This is an essential goal for clients with somatic symptom illnesses. Stress can exacerbate physical symptoms and create a cycle of distress. Teaching clients effective stress management and coping strategies can empower them to handle their symptoms in a healthier way, which can ultimately lead to an improvement in their overall condition.

Choice E rationale:

Developing a dislike for medical appointments - This is not a realistic or relevant goal for the treatment of somatic symptom illnesses. Medical appointments are necessary for proper assessment, diagnosis, and treatment of these conditions. Encouraging a dislike for medical appointments could hinder the client's progress and adherence to treatment.

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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?

Nursing Test Bank

Naxlex Comprehensive Predictor Exams

A nurse is educating a client about the concept of psychotherapy as a treatment option for somatic symptom illnesses. Which type of psychotherapy focuses on challenging and changing negative thoughts and beliefs that contribute to symptoms?

Correct Answer is C

Explanation

(Select all that apply):. A nurse is discussing various goals that can be set for the treatment of somatic symptom illnesses. Which of the following are realistic and measurable goals that a client might aim for? Select all that apply.

Correct Answer is ["B","C","D"]

Explanation

A nurse is providing health teaching to a client with a somatic symptom illness. What is a crucial component of the nurse's education for the client?

(Select all that apply):. A nurse is explaining different classes of antidepressant medications to a client. Which of the following are examples of selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors (SSRIs)? Select all that apply.

A client with somatic symptom illness is interested in exploring treatment options beyond medication. Which non-pharmacological intervention involves inserting thin needles into specific points on the body to stimulate energy flow?

A client with a somatic symptom illness is receiving care. What is an essential aspect of the nurse-client relationship in this situation?

A nurse is educating a client about the different treatment options for somatic symptom illnesses. Which of the following medications is classified as an analgesic and can help relieve pain associated with somatic symptom illnesses?

A nurse is discussing potential complications of somatic symptom illnesses with a client. Which of the following factors can influence the client's outcomes in managing their condition?

(Select All That Apply):. A nurse is working with a client with a somatic symptom illness to identify healthy coping strategies. Which strategies should the nurse encourage the client to use? Select all that apply.