A nurse is caring for a client who exhibits chronic physical symptoms that cannot be fully explained by medical conditions. These symptoms cause distress and impairment in the client's daily life. What term is used to describe this condition?

Illness anxiety disorder.

Conversion disorder.

Somatic symptom disorder.

Factitious disorder.

Answer and Explanation

The Correct Answer is C

Choice A rationale:

Illness anxiety disorder involves excessive worry about having a serious illness, often despite minimal or no symptoms. While this choice relates to anxiety about being sick, it does not encompass the chronic physical symptoms without clear medical explanation that the client in the scenario is experiencing.

Choice B rationale:

Conversion disorder involves neurological symptoms such as altered motor functions or sensory deficits that cannot be explained by medical conditions. However, this choice doesn't account for the chronic nature of the symptoms described in the scenario.

Choice C rationale:

Somatic symptom disorder is characterized by chronic physical symptoms that cause distress and impairment, but the symptoms cannot be fully explained by medical conditions alone. This is the most appropriate choice for the client in the scenario, as it aligns with the chronic and distressing nature of the symptoms.

Choice D rationale:

Factitious disorder involves intentionally falsifying or inducing physical or psychological symptoms for the purpose of assuming the sick role. This choice does not reflect the chronic nature of the symptoms in the scenario, nor does it address the distress experienced by the client.

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Correct Answer is D

Explanation

Choice A rationale:

Amitriptyline is a tricyclic antidepressant used to treat depression and certain types of pain. While it may help manage pain associated with somatic symptom illness, it is not classified primarily as an analgesic.

Choice B rationale:

Sertraline is a selective serotonin reuptake inhibitor (SSRI) commonly used to treat depression and anxiety disorders. It is not classified as an analgesic and is not primarily intended for pain relief.

Choice C rationale:

Lorazepam is a benzodiazepine used to treat anxiety disorders and is not classified as an analgesic. Its main effects are on anxiety reduction and sedation.

Choice D rationale:

Gabapentin is an anticonvulsant medication that is often used to manage neuropathic pain, including pain associated with somatic symptom illnesses. It can help alleviate pain by affecting nerve signals in the brain.

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 nurse is caring for a client who exhibits chronic physical symptoms that cannot be fully explained by medical conditions. These symptoms cause distress and impairment in the client's daily life. What term is used to describe this condition?

Nursing Test Bank

Naxlex Comprehensive Predictor Exams

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?

Correct Answer is D

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 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?

A nurse is caring for a group of clients with somatic symptom illnesses. Select all the types of somatic symptom illnesses from the following options.

(Select all that apply):. A nurse is discussing non-pharmacological treatments for somatic symptom illnesses with a client. Which of the following interventions can be considered as relaxation techniques? Select all that apply.

A client with a somatic symptom illness is experiencing improvements in their symptoms and daily functioning. What should the nurse do to support the client's progress?

A nurse is discussing treatment approaches for somatic symptom illnesses. Which therapy is commonly used to address underlying emotional factors and manage symptoms?

A nurse is explaining the potential outcomes of somatic symptom illnesses to a client. Which of the following statements accurately describes a possible outcome for a client with somatic symptom illness?

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?